iffi 






I LIMARY^OF CONGRESS,; 









I UNITED STATES OP AMERICA^ 




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^y/^:Z^_jUL- 



THK 



NIGHT OF AFFLICTION 



AND 



MORNING OF RECOVERY. 



j^isT ^tjtobio(3-i^^:ph:"Y". 



BY REV. J. H. MAGEE 

M 

Pastor of thk Union Baptist Chuuch. 



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OINCIXJS^ATI, O. ^ 
Published by the Author, 12 Rittenhouse Street. 

1 s 7 3 . 



L 



C\r| 



t ^ wv 



Entered according to Act of Cono-ress in the year 1873, 

By James H. Magee, 
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 



Printed by 
HENRY WaTKIN, 
N. W. Cor. Fifth & Walnut Streets, Cincinnati, O 




'1 



INTRODUCTION. 



Dear Reader : — Permit me to introduce you to a sketch 
of the author's life during twelve weary years of suffering, 
which he is pleased to call his Night of Affliction and 
Morning of Recovery." 

Though the night of mj^ suffering and pain was long 
and cheerless, 3xt, as the darkest night has its morning, 
so ni}^ afflictions terminated in an entire restoration to 
health. The darkest cloud has a silver lining. " And it 
shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, 
that the bow shall be seen in eveiy cloud." The bow of 
God's promise was seen on the dark clouds of the night 
of m}^ affliction as a token of God's goodness to me. It 
was through my afflictions that the word of truth was 
made a blessing to my soul. 

For some time before I obeyed the call of God to begin 
the work of preaching the glorious gospel of Christ, I felt 
an overpowering love for the Bible, the word of God. In 
1858 I went to the village near which my father's famil}^ 
resided, and bought a reference Bible — the first book of 
the kind I ever bought with my own mone3^ From this 
precious treasure I learned to love God and his word and 
work more and more. I have this Bible now, and would 



iv Introduction. 



lake no mone}^ for it. " Buy the truth and sell it not/' 
Prov. xxiii. 23. 

After I entered the ministry I felt the necessity of a 
thorough training in theology, as well as that amount of 
mental training which is calculated to fit a minister for a 
sphere of extended usefulness. The signal manner in 
which God answered my request in this case will be seen 
by the following extract which I wrote about two years 
before the request was actually granted : " I have felt the 
importance of some training in theology, and shall never 
be satisfied until I have obtained that amount of theolog- 
ical training which is necessary to tlie successful preaching 
of the gospel. It has been my desire for some time to 
have an opportunity of studying at the Pastors' College, 
London, England. Whether this shall be attained or not 
remains with the great God who holds the destinies of 
men. I shall trust Him for guidance, believing ' that all 
things work together for good to them that love God, to 
them who are the called according to his purpose.' " 

God began to answer this prayer by placing me in the 
way of Elders Caldicott and Carto, of Toronto, Canada, 
from whom I received much instruction. From tlie latter 
I purchased five volumes of Dwight's System of Theology 
and five volumes of Doddridge's Works, which laid the 
foundation for a systematic course of study. 

About two years after I wrote the above extract, I was 
permitted to cross the Atlantic Ocean, and to enter Mr. 
Spurgeon's college, in which I had my long-cheerished 



Introduction. v 



hopes and wishes fully satisfied, viz: of learning how to 
preach in such a manner as to win souls to Christ. " 
magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt his name to- 
gether. I sought the Lord and He heard me, and delivered 
me from all my fears." "This poor man cried and the 
Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles." 
Ps. xxxiv. 3, 4, 6. 

Now, dear friends, the main objects for which I have 
written this book are the following: To encourage the 
faith of believers in the Lord Jesus; to believe what He 
sa3's: — " Hitherto ye have asked nothing in my name; ask 
and 3'e shall receive, that 3'our joy may be full." And 
again He says: "Ask, and it shall be given j^ou ; seek, and 
3-6 shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you ; for 
ever3' one that asketli receiveth, and he that seeketh find- 
eth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." There- 
fore, m3^ friends, if 3'ou want to know the fulness of joy 
you must love God, ask in pra3'er for what 3"Ou want in 
the name of Jesus, and expect and wait for an answer. 

The book is also designed to afl^ord comfort to all who 
are aflHicted, or who have known some of the sorrows of 
life, and it is hoped it will supply a long-felt want among 
our colored people for works from the pen of one of 
their own race. The author claims for it a simple nar- 
ration of facts which came under his notice durino- his 
night of afl[liction and morning of recovery, and hopes 
and prays that the volume ma3^ prove a blessing to all its 
readei's, especiall3' to such as ma3' be in the night of 



vi Introduction. 



affliction, and that such may realize, by an humble trust 
in Jesus, that the night of suffering shall be exchanged 
for a morning without clouds. "And he shall be as the 
light of the ruorning when the sun riseth; even a morn- 
ing without clouds, as the tender grass springing out of 
the earth, by clear shining after rain." 

If this volume shall bring comfort and peace, through 
the blood of Jesus, to one poor sorrowing son or daughter 
of suffering humanity, I shall have been sufficiently re- 
warded for the time and labor spent in writing it. 

Remember that all things work together for good to 
them that love God, and that we have the precious prom- 
ise of an abiding and present Christ always, even unto 
the end. 

That the Lord may bless this work to the lasting good 

of all who may read it is the praj^er of 

Yours, truly, 

J. H. Magee. 

Cincinnati, 0., June 2, 1873. 



O O IsT T :H1 IN" T S 



CHAPTER I. 

CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH. 

Birth- -Parentage—Removal from Kentucky— The rented Farm 
—The fallen Cupboard — The Locust Trees — Removal to 
Macoupin — Prairie Scenes — My first School — My Color a 
Source of Discontent— Reflections . - 13 

CHAPTER II. 

THE COMING AFFLICTION. 

Reflections— The Decress of God— Stirrino: Scenes— A Thought 
yet Future— The Brio-htening Skj^— My Sister Elizabetii—Her 
Dying Request — He*- Death — My Coming Affliction — A 
Soliloquy 18 



CHAPTER III. 

affliction's DREARY HOUR. 

What it is — Its Progress—How it Began— The First Cause— How It 
Happened — A Dreadful Threat— Sudden Illness— Evidence 
of Poison— Eighteen Months' Suffering — Protrusion of Bones 
—Exfoliation of Bone— A Curious Phenomena— Affliction of 
the Foot — Visibility of the Heel Bone— Bone Extracted— 
Domestic Scenes of Distress—A Wonderful Circumstance— 
Dr. Lee, Dr. Grinstead, Dr. John Ash— Visited by a Presby- 
terian Minister—Xo Fears of Death— Questioned by my Mo- 
ther— Reflections— Hopes of Recovery— Attempt at Locomo- 
tion— Xews from the Xorth— School Prospects 22 



viii Contents. 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE DAWN OF HOPE. 

Introduction— Conviction--A Series of Meetings— Conversion- 
Doubts --Baptism— Happy in tiie Lord—A Trip to Racine, 
Wisconsin— Appearance of the City— Preparation for School 
--Teachers — Pleasant Associations— Sunday School— Benevo- 
lent Society— Home~Chica<?o~ A Loss— Perplexity— Safe at 
Last— Continued Affliction— Avenues of Usefulness 29 

CHAPTER V. 

ON THE ROAD OF PROGRESS. 

Teacher of a School— The Throne of Grace my Standard— School 
Exhibition— Study of Latin— School-teaching at Ridge Prairie 
— A Discussion— Difficulties Overcome— My Call to the Minis- 
try — A Grand Celebration— On the " Grounds"— Adieu to 
" Hop Hollow "-Teaching at " the Ridge "—Full School- 
Measles— Death of Mary Blair and William Wilson— Grief.. 37 

CHAPTER VL 

AN AWFUL TRIAL. 

Limb Worse— Dr. Pope— Painful Examination— Death of the Bone 
—An Operation Necessary— Return to Wood River— Getting 
My Mind Composed— Living Near to God— Taking Leave of 
My Father's Family— Rev. J. H. Johnson— Steamer bound for 
St. Louis, Mo.— Reflections— Arrival at P. G. Wells— Consul- 
tation with Dr. Pope— The Day of Suftering— The Sisters' 
Hospital — The Doctor's Apartment — The Hour is Come- 
Nearer, My God, to Thee— Sensation— The Surgical Operation 
—Back to Consciousness — Start for My Boarding House-- 
Dreadful Sickness— The Morning Brings Relief— Conversation 
—Meditation— Growing Better— A Few Words About Elder 
J. H. Johnson- -Read 3' to Go Home--Kind Friends 45 

CHAPTER VII. 

THE MORNING COMETH, 

A Night Thought— Knowledge bj'' Experience— Hopes of Recov- 



Contents. ix 



er}^ — The Association— Ordination— Called to tlie Pastorate of 
Salem Baptist Church— God Prospers the Work— Baptismal 
Scene—Called to the Pastorate of Piasa Church— The Con- 
vention—Elder Troy— Failing Health— Wood lliver Associa- 
trion— Thirst for Knowledge— A Plan to Secure It— Prospects 
Fallen— Call to the Pastorate in Springfield, Illinois— Letter 
from Bro. Troy — Baptist Church in Toronto, Canada- 
Domesticity -All Ends Well 53 



CHAPTER VIII. 

CANADIAN PROSPECTS. 

Christmas at Home— My Mother's Joj'—New- Year's Day— On My 
Way to Canada — Toronto— The Church— Sabbath School- 
First Sabbath in that Pulpit— Called— A Series of Meetings- 
Great Revival— Baptismal Scene — Large Audience— Living 
for Jesus— Study of Latin— Home on a Visit — Alton and St. 
Louis— First of August Celebration — Springfield, Illinois- 
Funeral of Wm. H. Magee— A Letter to the Churcli— Rev. 
De Baptiste— Windsor — British Soil— Baptist Church in De- 
troit — Baptist Church in Windsor— Home again--Library 
burned 59 



CHAPTER IX. 

LIFE IN TORONTO. 

Sad Intelligence— Sympathy — Colored Citizens — Funerel Sermon 
of President Lincoln — The Sermon — Toronto Grammar School 
— A Prize for Proficiency in Latin — Progress— Reminiscence 
— Churches and Ministers — A Gospel-fortified City — Delight- 
ing in the House of God— A glorious Hope— The Fruition of 
Heaven— A Description— Affliction ,of Life— The Bond Street 
Baptist Church— T. P.. Caldicott, D. D.— Richmond Street 
Wesleyan Church— Rev. Wm. Stephenson— Rev. Mr. Pollard— 
The Elm Street Wesleyan Church— Mr. John Potts— Knox 
Church— The Evangelical Union Church— Rev. Mr. Melville 
—The Sayer Street B. M. E. Church— Rev. Peter Anderson— 
The Queen Street Baptist Church— Rev. J. H. Magee 72 



X Contents. 



CHAPTER X. 

THE OLD WORLD. 

M)^ Last Visit to My Home in Illinois— Toronto Grammar School 
--Theology— Thoughts of Faith About Spurgeon— Sword and 
Trowel— Pastor's College— Trunk packed for London—Quebec 
—Steamer Hibernian— Off for England— Passengers — Inci- 
dents on the Voyage— First Sunday at Sea— Storms— White 
Cliffsof Wales— Land Ahead— Landed in Liverpool— Thoughts 
About England and English People—Curiosity of English Peo- 
ple—A Colored Face— C. H. Spurgeon and My First Inter- 
view—Mr. Spurgeon's College and Students— Kev. Mr. Brock 
—In College -Our Course of Study- English Habits— The 
Metropolitan Tabernacle— The Prince of Preachers— Sabbath 
School— Catechumen Class— Mrs. Bartlett's Class— College Tea 
Meeting— Mr. Spurgeon's Mode of Conducting Religious Ser- 
vice—Contributions of the Congregation — An Outline of the 
Lord's Work Done by the Pastor's College— President's Let- 
ter—Rev. Newman Hall— Painful Sickness— Visited by Scores 
of Kind Friends During My Sickness— Mr. Spurgeon's Birth- 
day Anniversary 91 



CHAPTER XL 

LONDON, THE METROPOLIS OF THE WORLD. 

Public Buildings— Over Ground and Under Ground Railroads— 
The West End— Belgravia— Parks- -Kew Gardens and Palace 
—The Goodness of God— Churches— The Bible the Secret of 
England's Greatness— ''Ichabod,'' the Cause of a Nation's 
Weakness— City Government—The great Fire of London- 
Tower of London— Crystal Palace— The British Museum- 
King's Librarj'— St. Paul's Cathedral— Westminister Abbey- 
Hampton— A Letter from Elder De Baptiste— A Letter from 
my Mother— Preparations to return to America— Xotes of 
kind Friends— Homeward bound— Home again— A sad message 
—Death of my Mother— Mj^ greatest Loss— Her Funeral— Both 
ready and willing togo— '• M.7 Way is clear and Heaven is my 
view "—Last Letter from My Mother 118 



Contents. xi 



CHAPTER XII. 

THE HAND OF THE LORD. 

Professor in a Baptist College— Education- Wliite Lights-Lincoln 
--My Marriage-Ptemoval to the West— Alton Colored Public 
School-Death of My Father-Baptist Bhurch in Alton, Illi- 
nois-Called to the Union Baptist Church of Cincinnati, Ohio 
-A Hearty Welcome-The Lord's Work — Great Kevival— 
Texts of my First Sermons in Cincinnati — Inauguration 
Subject— Times of Refresliing— Pastor's First Annual Peport 
—What the Church Has Done— Her Living History— Pastor's 
Second Annual Peport-Great Out-Pouring of the Holy Spirit 
—Testimonial — Union Baptist Church Sunday School— Its 
History, etc.— Churches~Testimonials~A Visit to Louisville, 
Kentucky 1^1 



THE NIGHT OF AFFLICTION, ETC. 



CHAPTER I. 



Birth— Parentage — Removal from Kentucky — The rented Farm 
— The fallen Cupboard — The Locust Trees — Removal to 
Macoupin — Prairie Scenes — My tirst School — My Color a 
Source of Discontent— Reflections. 

1 WAS born in Madison county, Illinois, June 23d, 1839. 
My parents were born in Kentuck3\ My father was what 
is called " free born," but my mother was not so fortunate. 
She was born a slave, belonging to Bill}^ Smith, of Louis- 
ville. My mother, being a slave, naturall}^ prevented her 
uniting with my father in marriage until he had paid what 
her owners were pleased to term her equivalent in money. 
The sum was set; he began to make strenuous efforts to 
raise the required amount. He had a great reputation as 
a pork packer, in which capacity he worked several seasons 
I have heard him say that he has worked all da}', stopping 
just time enough to take his supper, and then set in again 
for the night, working till da3^-light in the morning; and 
so on for weeks. Finally the sum for which he so ardently 
sought was raised, and paid over to Mr Smith, after which 
they were united in marriage. 

Having spoken so much in reference to the manner in 
which my father labored to secure the freedom of my 
mother, and thus become her husband and protector, in- 
stead of leaving her in the bitterness of slavery, I must 



14 The Night op Affliction 

not fail to speak of the noble manner in which ni}^ mother 
labored in assisting to repay my father; which she has 
clone a hundred times over. They removed from Louisville 
to Madison county, Illinois. Mother, with her own hands, 
has wrought many a live long day, both in the house and 
in the fields. On one occasion she took her little boy, 
Lazarus, to the field, there being no one to leave him 
with at home. She placed him near an oak tree, which 
had been dead, seemingly for years, thoughtless of any 
danger befalling her child. She went to work; two or 
more hours elapsed, during which time, at intervals, she 
went to see how the little one was getting on, then to her 
work again. In a little while she noticed that the wind 
had begun to blow quite briskly; at length she heard from 
the direction she had left little Lazarus a great noise, as 
of the falling of a tree; she looked — and, oh horror! the 
tree beside which she had left little Lazarus was blown 
down. In haste she ran, and found the brains of her dar- 
ling boy oozing out of his ears — life was extinct, one of 
the limbs of the tree having struck him on the head. All 
who have the least feeling of sympathy can readil}^ j^^clge 
of the pangs of poignant grief with which her heart was 
piftrced. All this intense grief was brought about b}?- the 
monster Slavery, it being the primary cause. Will not 
the Lord avenge his own ? Have not the tears of my 
mother, with those of thousands of mothers, gone up to 
the throne of the Eternal ? Will He not regard them ? 
Does not the blood of ni}^ brother, with that of thousands 
of m}'- fellow - countiymen, cry out from the ground ? 
Surel}^ the eye of Omniscience has not been closed to all 
this. 

The old rented farm on which ni}" parents first settled 
is frought with the recollection of many happy scenes of 



And MoRmNG of Eecovery. 15 



my childhood. The bright, long, summer da5'S, which I 
thought were much longer than the days of summer are 
now, — it was then that my heart was first impressed with 
the beauty of the exterior world. The first song of the 
robin, announcing the happy return of spring, awakened 
notes of gratitude to God. The fall of the year was always 
a season of much pleasure to me, it being the time when 
the farm products were taken to Alton, the nearest market. 
This aflorded me a favorable opportunity to go to "town." 
My parents brought a large cupboard with them from 
Kentucky, with a large number of plates and cups and 
saucers, which belonged to my grandmother — such as 
would now be termed " old fashion tableware." This ware 
afforded the first means of awakening a desire in my mind 
to learn to read from studying the different designs with 
which the ware was marked. One day my sister Elizabeth 
removed the cupboard and the ware to the yard, to wash 
and re-arrange them. All the ware having been washed 
and placed in the cupboard by my sister — to see how it 
would look — when a brisk wind came and blew the cup- 
board and its contents to the ground, smashing all the 
ware into atoms. Thus passed away one of my child- 
hood's first teachers. 

In front of the old homestead of Mr. Dorsey stood a 
number of tall locust trees. Beneath these trees was 
spread, on a temporary table erected for the occasion, the 
wedding dinner of my brother, Samuel Magee, who married 
Miss Catherine Stewart, at the age of nineteen. This was 
the first wedding dinner I ever saw. I have often spoken 
of the wedding dinner which was eaten beneath the locust 
trees in front of the house. 

Several years having elapsed after the marriage" of m}'' 
brother, when he took a prospecting journey to Macoupin 



16 The Night of Affliction 



county, in search of a site for a farm. He was successful 
in purchasing a site for a farm containing one hundred 
acres, twenty of it being in timber. William, Alfred, and 
Samuel Magee went immediately to breaking the prairie, 
preparatory to removing to it. A house was soon erected 
for the convenience of " the prairie breakers." The family 
growing anxious to get to their prairie home, could not 
wait until the farm was made ready for their reception, so 
an adjoining farm was rented to which we were removed 
early in the spring, and made preparations to put in the 
spring crop. I think we remained on that farm two years, 
We then removed to our own prairie home. Prosperity 
shone upon our pathway for several years, God blessing 
the labors of the family most abundantly, so that whatever 
the}^ laid their hands to prospered. 

The scenes on the wide prairies of Illinois are at times 
fearfully grand, especially in autumn, when the Indian 
summer sun tinges the horizon with purple and gold. 
About that time fires, great prairie fires, were of frequent 
occurrence. The grandeur of the scene could be seen for 
miles ; the angry flames leaping and dashing forward like 
the waves of the sea in a terrific storm. As soon as the 
fire was discovered, if it was coming towards the farm, it 
was necessar}^ to plow several furrows between the fence 
and the fire, to keep it from burning up the fences. Wild 
deer were frequently seen bounding across the almost 
illimitable prairie with a speed at which they only can 
travel. 

I was sent about this time, for the first time, to a school. 
I was delighted at the idea of going to school — the place I 
had often heard of but never seen. My father went to the 
teacher of the district school, Mrs. Tunsil, who taught in 
what was called the Merryweather district. My brother 



And Morning ob^ Recovery. 17 

Alfred and I went to this school for some time — indeed, 
until the school was closed. Mrs. Daniel Barton was next 
enoaoed to take charoe of a coh)red school held in a house 
on the east side of the farm, which was built for my 
brother Samuel. The whole family attended this school 
for several sessions. I was next sent to the Brookl3^n dis- 
trict school, to which I went for some considerable time. 
At length prejudice began to show itself on the part of 
the parents of some of the children, which was communi- 
cated to the trustees. Man}^ of the parents of the children 
were perfectly willing that I should go to school with their 
children, but there were others who thought their children 
were too good to go to the same school with a colored 
person. The trustees thought it best, for peace sake, to 
have my parents withdraw me from the school. 

Come near all ye that fear the Lord, and help to solve 
this wonderful problem: because my skin is dark and 
theirs white, therefore I ought not to have the same privi- 
lege of improving the immortal mind. Is this in accord- 
ance to the divine will ? Is this that charit}' which alone 
is the means of knowing our identity as a servant of God 
— an heir of righteousness ? I have not so learned Christ. 
I think that Christ died for all, irrespective of color, and 
that all the natural blessings with which he has crowned 
the human family, such as mental and moral training, 
should be shared b}^ all, irrespective of color, creed, or 
clime. 

Notwithstanding all these difficulties, God abundantly 
blessed me. When one door was closed another was 
opened. Thus it was at the time referred to. A school 
was opened immediately after this by a white lady exclu- 
sively for the benefit of colored children. I went to this 
school for six months, after which I was detained at home 
2 



18 The Night op Affliction 



to attend to duties connected with the farm. During my 
absence from school I never forgot the instructions which 
I received while at school. 



CHAPTER II. 

The Coming Affliction— Reflections— The Decrees of God— Stir- 
ring Scenes— A Thought yet Future— The Briglitening Sky— 
My" Sister Elizabeth—Her Dying Request— Her Death--My 
Coming Affliction— A Soliloquy. 

Time in its onward flight rapidly bore me to the tide 
of sorrow and affliction. Like the coming storm, which 
gathers in darkness and tempest before it makes its de- 
scent to the earth. The morning's sun may have risen 
brio-ht. oivins: its light and heat to thousands who, like the 
sun, rejoice their daily duty to fulfill. But ere it has 
reached the zenith portentous clouds may have overcast 
the «ky, spreading darkness and gloom where before was 
light and beauty. The hitherto serene sky may be marked 
with the dark thunderclouds, upon which the fierce light- 
nino- ma}^ play in terrific grandeur. The decrees of God 
respecting this world may to the unobserving seem but an 
idle tale. But does that in the least retard its coming con- 
summation ? The antideluvians, hearing by the mouth 
of the servant of God concerning the coming affliction — 
the deluge — thought it a thing quite improbable, judging, 
doubtless, from the then clear sky. But how soon, alas! 
was their incredulity punished with the terrible vengeance 
of God. When, perhaps at midday, the sky gathered 
blackness, and the distant thunder became more and more 
audible, the forked lightning, as the bolts of Jehovah, 



And Morning of Recovery. 19 

starting athwart the sky, — how changed the scene ! The 
merry dance is ceased; the voluptuous music hushed; the 
trembling bride and groom amazed; the merchant as- 
tounded at his desk, perhaps pen in hand; a moment of 
dismay. The revellers' feast is as gall in view of the terri- 
ble approach of the righteous decrees of God. The com- 
ing affliction is at hand. 

There is yet another decree to be fulfilled, in the destruc- 
tion of the present material world, by that most terrible of 
agents, fire. It is in time 3^et future, and therefore many 
look at the present and the past, and conclude that surly 
the o-reat structure of this world cannot be reserved to fire. 
The faithless and unbelieving will assuredly be visited with 
the great displeasure of God in the great day of the Lord. 
That awful day will surely come. The appointed hour 
makes haste, when the sky shall grow bright with the de- 
scending Jesus, with the clouds for his chariot, myriads of 
angels constituting his retinue, accompanied b}^ the voice 
of the archangel and with the trump of God. That voice 
shall doubtless wake the dead with the cry " Come to judg- 
ment, come to judgment, come to judgment." The dead in 
Christ shall rise first. They that are alive and remain shall 
be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the 
Lord in the air. What a scene will then take place ! The 
internal fires, which now hold their seat in mid earth, will 
then burst forth from thousands of pores, leaping up, up, 
and up, till the heavens being on fire shall melt with fervent 
heat. Where are the gosple haters? Where is the blas- 
phemer ? the reviler ? the drunkard ? the sinner of every 
description ? Listen ! Hear them calling to the rocks to 
fall on them, to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb. 
Methinks the rocks will cry, " Sinner, I'm not a hiding place 
for thee." This is a description of coming affliction. 



20 The Night of Affliction 

M}^ sister Elizabeth for six 3'ears had been the wife of 
Canard Arbuckle, during which time she was almost a con- 
stant sufterer both in bod}- and mind. Previous to her 
marriage she gave her heart to God. She was one of the 
l^est christians I ever saw; patient under the most severe 
trials to which it is the lot of christians to be subject. She 
was baptized into the fellowship of the Salem Baptist church, 
Wood river, Madison county, Illinios, and continued a con- 
sistent member of that church until God released her from 
the church militant to go to the church triumphant, in glor}'. 
She fell sick in the winter of 1850, and died near the first 
of Iklarch of that 3'ear. Before she died she called all the 
members of the famil}' to her bedside, beginning with father 
and mother, and admonished each to meet her in heaven. 
At that time every soul in our family was in the gall of 
bitterness but my then dear, dying sister. I remem- 
ber well when my time came to go to the bedside of my 
sister to hear her dying request; I wept bitterly when 
she took me by the hand and addressed me — " Henry, I am 
going to my Father's house in heaven. I want j^ou to be a 
good boy. Be kind to 3'our mother and father. Meet me 
in heaven." The Piasa people came a distance of five miles, 
sometimes every evening, to see her, and hear her talk dur- 
ino^ her illness. Old christians said that they never had 
heard anvbody talk as she did. Her conversation was all 
about heayen, and its eternal happiness. Sinners were 
deepl}^ convicted at hearing a recital of what she had said. 
When the message came she was read}^ and willing to go. 
She asked not to sta}', but often said she did not want to 
stay, that she wanted to be with Jesus. She passed quickly 
over the river death, shouting ever and anon as she was 
passing through its chilling waves. She had an abundant 
admittance into the heavenly kingdom. Farewell, ocntle 



And Morning of Recovery. 21 



sister! Thou, who in life was so kind, and in death so 
solicitous for us. Farewell, till the morning — that bright 
and hallowed morn of the resurrection — when b}^ the 
grace of God I shall meet j^ou again. I shall again grasp 
that hand with which thou didst mine so fondly press. 
Thou art gone but not forgotten ; thy memory is still dear 
to man}^ a kindred heart. 

Sister, tliou wer't mikl and lovely, 

Gentle as the summer breeze, 
Pleasant as the an- of evening 

When it floats among the trees. 

Peaceful be thy silent slumber, 

Peaceful in tliy grave so low; 
Thou no more will join our number. 

Thou no more our songs shalt know. 

Dearest sister, thou hast left us. 

Here thj^ loss we deeply feel; 
Eut 'tis God that hath bereft us— 

He can all our sorrows heal. 

Yet again we hope to meet thee 

When the day of life is fled ; 
Then in heaven with joy to greet thee, 

Where no farewell tear is shed. 

The loss of m}^ sister had scarcely passed before the shad- 
ows of the coming evil of my affliction might have been 
seen looming up in the distance. Already the angel of 
protection might have spoken to my happy 3'outhful spirit, 
" Let th}' heart cheer thee ; enjoy the few fleeting hours of 
merry childhood; look upon all, with a heart enraptured 
with delight, that this beautiful world affords to cheer the 
spirit of untrammeled, happ}^ childhood; for soon the 
scene of thy present joy will be turned to one of sore afflic- 
tion, such as will scatter the present sunshine of thy joy to 
the four winds.'' 



22 The Night op Affiction 



The bright days of health and happiness soon terminated 
before the coming affliction , whicli came like the fury of a 
tempest, withering the flowers which I had so fondly cher- 
ished, leaving nought but sadness, pain, and misery. The 
quickened step of j^outh was suddenly stopped. The eye 
which glistened with health and jo}^ was overcast with the 
dullness of sore affliction. Like the pride of the forest, 
suddenly stricken by the fury of the hurrican, causing his 
leaves to wither and drop in tlie midst of life. So sudden 
did my affliction come that none of my people could imagine 
how or by what means so terrible a disease had come. Little 
dreaming of the real cause of my distress, that the serpent 
of a man, whom my parents had nursed in the lap of kind- 
ness, had bitten their son almost to the death. May God 
forgive them for so cruel a deed — a deed the effects of which 
I fear 1 shall not soon get well of. May God perfect me 
through suffering, and at last bring me to the enjoyment of 
youth and vigor in the fair climes of unclouded day. Amen. 



CHAPTER IIL 

Affliction's Dreary Hour-- What it is— Ics Progress—How it Began 
— Tiie First Cause— How It Happened — A Dreadful Threat — 
Sudden Illness — Evidence of Poison—Eighteen Months' Suf- 
fering—Protrusion of Bones — Exfoliation of Bone— A Curi- 
ous Phenomena— Affliction of the Foot — Visibility of the 
Heel Bone — Bone Extracted — Domestic Scenes of Distress— 
A Wonderful Circumstance— Dr. Lee, Dr. Grinstead, Dr. John 
Ash— Visited by a Presbyterian Minister— No Fears of Death 
—Questioned by my JMotlier— Retiectioin—Hopes of Recovery 
—Attempt at Locomotion — News from '• the North "—School 
Prospects. 

Man that is born of woman is of few daj's and full of trouble. — Job xiv. 1. 

How soon, alas! are the flowers of morning withered; ere 
we have time to admire tiie freshness of their bloom the}^ 



And Morning of Recovery. 23 

are withered away; a fitting emblem of the da3^s of our pro- 
bation here. We scarce can possession boast before all 
that we claim dear, as the apple of the eye, is fled and gone. 
Look at the beauties of creation as displayed in the vege- 
table kingdom on a morning in June — how bright and 
transporting the scene ! The birds from almost every tree- 
top seem to vie with the beauties of the morning. Look 
again, after a short time has elapsed, and behold the change. 
The flowers that were once so beautiful in color and fragrant 
in smell are withered; there is nought but the wreck of 
departed glory. The birds, which were once the embodi- 
ment of happiness, are flown to other and more genial 
climes. Noiioht remains but the sad remembrance of 
departed joys. 

Thus it was with me. Twelve years of sad affliction have 
marked my life with its saddening presence. The early 
morning of my life was like that of the spring. My pros- 
pects bright, life and health as good as the prospects seemed, 
but it was soon terminated by a fearful disease which blasted 
all my dearest hopes for the anticipated bright future. As 
the disease waxed stronger my strength waned, and my 
hopes of recovery from the malignity of the disease seemed 
to have vanished like leaves seared by autumnal frosts and 
blown from their fastenings by the winds of winter. Listen 
attentively and I will tell you the manner in which I was 
attacked. 

It was near the middle of September, 1853, that I went 
on a Suncla}^ to a neighboring family Tvho lived one half 
mile distant from our house near the thriving village of 
Shipman, in the county of Macoupin, and State of Illinois. 
The family whom I have referred to had been for some time 
considered by us as being our nearest friends, in conse- 
quence of which the master of the house made free to ask 



24 The Night of Affliction 



my father, who was in good circiniistances, for small loans 
of money occasionally. It so happened that the man in 
question came to my father for the loan of live dollars, 
which loan he, my father, refused on account of the ap- 
proaching harvest, which would demand all the money he 
had in making preparations for it. This refusal so incensed 
the would-be borrower that he then and there made a dread- 
ful threat : "You shall never gain anything by not lending 
me that money." A few weeks after the above occurrence 
brought me to the house of the family mentioned above. 
The hour for dinner having come, I was invited to dine. 
The rest of the family drank milk or water, but I was sup 
plied with tea. Strange indeed that they should prepare 
tea for me who at that time was a mere boy. After dinner 
I was taken suddenly ill ; indeed, so much that they feigned 
to be greatly alarmed, and hurried me home lest I might 
become so ill as to be unable to get there. On the w^ay 
home I got so very sick that I w^as compelled to stop l)y the 
way several times in order to gain sufficient strength to 
walk home. When I had arrived home it became painfully 
evident that I had been poisoned. You may shudder at the 
thought, dear reader, and exclaim, poisoned ! Yes, it was 
really so. 

The next day I was removed to what we children called 
the big house; and there I remained for eighteen months a 
sufterer from poison which that family gave me in retallia- 
tion for my father refusing to lend them five dollars. The 
suffering I endured those months can never be told; lan- 
o-uao-e fails to tell the tale of w^oe. The winter following 
the autumn in which I was poisoned my bones began to 
protrude through the skin so much that my dear mother 
had to beat the white of an egg into a sort of paste wdth 
which she annointed the broken skin. At length it was 



And Morning of Recovery. 25 



removed from my body into my limbs and settled there, the 
cftects of which may be seen to this day. 

Just above the left knee the limb was swollen so greatly 
that the skin actually bursted. After this took place I 
could feel the bone exfoliating. Suppuration immediately 
ensued, which continued to render me more and more 
helpless. About the 10th of February, 1854, a worm came 
from my left knee through an orifice made by the exfoliat- 
ing bone. This worm was about twelve inches in length, 
and about the size of a common pipestem. How it got into 
m-y limb I am not able to say. I hope some physician, in 
whose hand this work may fall, will explain it. About the 
same time that I discovered that the disease had fallen into 
the left knee, I also discovered that the right foot w^as 
seriously affected with the same complaint. At night I 
could distinctly feel something crawling over my foot sim- 
ilar to those insects which are found under old fallen trees, 
commonly called, in the west, wood lice, but as soon as a 
light was procured that painful sensation ceased. In a few 
weeks the right foot was so badly swollen as to appear like 
anything else than a foot. Very soon a large tumor ap- 
peared on the heel, which in a short time broke and sup- 
purated greatly. As t^ime wore on the heel bone became 
quite visible, and continued more and more so some months, 
when, in trying to move it about, I struck it against some- 
thing, which caused me pain the equal of which I know I 
shall not feel again, unless it will be when tny heartstrings 
are being severed by death. All of a sudden 1 reached 
down and took hold of the bone, and with mj' own hand 1 
pulled it out. The two little ankle bones on each side 
were also broken loose and came away, the prints of which 
may be seen to this day. 

.Permit me now to call your attention to other scenes of 
3 



26 The Night of Affliction 



distress which took place among the farm stock, of which 
my father had a great variety of what the neighbors said 
was of the very best. We will first take a look into the cow 
yard, which contained twelve milch cows, which afforded 
the chief employment of my mother. Every night either 
one or two, and sometimes three, of those cows died, until 
there was none left. The next o])ject to which I wish to 
call your attention is the pen of fatted hogs, which were for 
the winter market and also for our own use. I disremember 
the exact number, but to the best of my knowledge there 
was about forty head, every one of which died in the same 
manner as the cows died. Three of our best horses also 
died in the short space of one week; one of which died 
under the most wonderful circumstances I suppose the 
world ever heard of. It was in this wise : My brother-in- 
law, Conard Arbuckle, started on horseback for a doctor 
who lived fort}^ miles distant. When he had got about half 
way, the horse's belly actualh- bursted open, and his entrails 
spilled out before the animal fell to the ground. He unsad- 
dled the animal, put the saddle on his shoulder, and walked 
to the nearest settlement of colored people, called the Kidge 
Prairie settlement, where he found an old gentleman whose 
name was Lee, whom he prevailed upon to come to see me; 
for he had not gone to the place where the doctor lived for 
whom he had started. 

Doctor Lee, being somewhat skilled in the healing art, 
came and administered to my sufferings, which somewhat 
relieved me, but not enough to enable me to get out of bed. 
Doctor Grinstead, a white physician, who lived in a little 
place called Woodburn, was next called in. He attended 
me ftiithfully for three or for months without doing me the 
least good, first trying one thing aild then another; One 
time I remember his tying a string to my great toe, and then 



And Morning of Recovery. 27 



fastening the other end of the string to the bedpost. This 
was done in order to straighten the foot, wliich had ah-eady 
begnn to turn downward. We next called in Dr. John Asli, 
of Brighton, Macoupin county, Illinois, who attended me 
faithfully for a great while, during which time it became 
obvious that I was sinking each day under his treatment. 
He called a consultation, consisting of himself and Dr. Grin- 
stead, both of whom pronounced me incurable. He there- 
fore told my parents that it was useless to try any more 
remedies, as he had used all that he knew anj^thing about 
without even bettering m}^ condition. 

For a long time I was without any medical attention 
whatever; like an abandoned ship without a compass or 
rudder left to the mercies and uncertainties of the sea. Mv 
sufferings continued until somebody told my parents of some 
doctress living in St. Louis, Mo., whose reputation was great 
as a cure-ail. Father and brother Alfred went to St. Louis, 
and upon inquir}^ found the lad}' in question, who, without 
being told b}' ni}' father or brother, told them what the}' 
had come for, and that he had a son that was very sick, and 
how, and for what cause I was sick. This wonderful doc- 
tress was emplo^'ed, and brought immediately to our place, 
a distance of fort}' miles from Shipman, the place near which 
we lived. The doctress having arrived made extensive 
preparations towards administering some medicines of 
various mixtures, consisting of poultices, bitters, etc. In a 
short time I began to mend, and continued to gain strength 
until I could be lifted from my bed to a chair. This was 
with great pain; it seemed as if every drop of blood was a 
nerve, ever}' one of which was being pricked with scores of 
needles; every joint felt as though it was dislocated ; my 
head like a spinning top. This cannot be wondered at when 
it is considered that eighteen months had elapsed since I 



28 The Night of Affliction 

had stood or attempted to stand erect. I could not stop 
longer than five minutes out of bed, so weak was I from the 
length of time which had passed since I had been up, and 
from the loss of blood consequent upon the continual drain 
from m}^ system made b}^ the protrusion of bones. 

About this time I was visited by a man of God, a minis- 
ter of the Presbyterian denomination. He read from the 
word of God to me and tried to impress upon me the neces- 
sity of seeking an interest in the Savior. Many has been 
the time that he has stood b}^ my bedside and preached to 
as many as could gain admittance to the house. During 
all mv dark days of affliction I did not fear death, neither 
did I think I should die; but entertained a hope of recovery. 
Often my poor mother has stood by my bedside watching, 
expecting every breath would be my last. She would some- 
times say — " Henry, are you going to die?" I would look 
strangely and wildly into her face and say — " No, mother, 
I am not going to die." I recollect of my dear brother-in- 
law, who is now gone to his rest, standing by my bed one 
night about ten or eleven o'clock watching me, thinking 
that every moment would be the signal of my departure, 
when he thought he heard my teeth clinch. He called the 
family in astonishment, telling them that he had heard me 
clinch my teeth, and therefore he thought I was dying. Ah 
no! it was not time for me to go then, for my heavenly 
father had chosen me for a work — the work of preaching 
the unsearchable riches of Christ and his atonement. Often 
when I think of the goodness of God and the hundreds of 
deaths through which he has brouo;ht me, I am made to 
weep tears of gratitude for his wonderful mercy in deliver- 
ing me from the power of death. 

The next attempt I made at getting up was more success- 
ful. I was taken from my bed and carried b}'^ my mother 



And MoitNiNG of Recovery. 29 

to a chair, where I sat for some time. This was repeated 
every clay until I began to get more strength. Finally I 
inA^euted a new way of locomotion (for I was still unable to 
use my feet) by sliding from place to place something like 
a babe just learning to crawl. The next step towards ad- 
vancement was walking by means of crutches, which I used 
for nearly a year. At last 1 threw awav the crutches and 
walked b}' the assistance of a cane. 

About this time my brother Samuel and his wife came 
home on a visit from Racine, Wisconsin. Having been 
sent to the district school until I was rejected, I had re- 
ceived a good start in the acquirement of the rudiments of 
some of the Eno'lish branches. Hearino- of the gTcat advan- 
tages atibrded by the schools of Racine to colored youths, 
I immediately resolved to go; for be it remembered that I 
had early imbibed an insatiable desire for knowledge, which 
desire has not 3'et been fully satisfied. 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE DAWX OF UOPE. 

Introduction— Conviction— A Series of Meetin,!<>— Conversion — 
Doubts —Baptism — il:ippy in the Lord— A Trip to Racine, 
Wisconsin-- Appearance of the City— Preparation for School 
— Teacliers— Pleasant Assoc' ations — Snnday School— Benevo- 
lent Society— Home— Chicago— A Loss— Perplexity— Safe at 
La>t— Continued Atflictio i— Avenues of Usefulness. 

The darkest nio-ht has its mornino-; the cloudiest sky its 
sunshine. The nii^rht may be dark, and amid its dark 
shroud may be many an anxious heart anxiously looking 
for the first streaks of the rosy morning. Ere the songsters 
beffin their matin soii^s, the brio-ht wino-s of aurora drives 
with the speed of thought the retreating night. The mari- 



30 The Night of Affliction 

iier looks out first upon the troubled deep and then upon 
the stormy cloud, upon the face of which the forked light- 
nino; is seen amid its terror and o'randeur. Then he listens 
with awe to the deep-toned thunder, which is as the voice 
of God sa3dng — " I am the God of the might}^ deep as well 
as the God of the heaven of heavens and of the material 
world." After the storm there is a calm, so deep an one 
that one might well believe in that power which said to the 
waves, " Peace, be still." 

Thus it was with me. I was a child of affliction, ten pest 
tossed. I was among the shadows of death's dark night 
with nought to cheer my lonel}'' and drear}^ solitude. I had 
continual sorrow in my heart, which was renewed at open- 
ing day and closing night. I looked at the birds, the hai)})y 
birds of spring, which none can be happier, apparenth^ 
than they, and w^ished from the innermost deptii of my 
heart that I was as happy as they. The glorious sun 
seemed to shine dimly, and cast a cheerless gloom upon 
everything upon which it shone. The iron had entered m}^ 
soul, and I could not be comforted until Jesus came to my 
relief. 

A series of meetings were in progress at this time in 
Piasa church, five miles distant, to which we were wont to 
go every evening. The meeting was conducted by the 
pastor. Elder J. H. Johnson, who was assisted by Elders 
R. J. Robinson, W. Broner, and H. D. King. My brother, 
W. H. Magee, was the first to receive conversion. He came 
home on the night of his conversion and told us of the 
great things the Lord had done for him, urging my father 
and mother to go to the meetings, and try to find an interest 
in the precious Savior, who had been so precious to him. 
With great reluctance I went to the church and took a seat 
far back in the part of the church next to the door. The 



And Morning of Recovery. 31 



meeting commenced; God's spirit was manifest; sinners 
went flocking to the anxious seat; but still I sat until the 
meeting broke up. Oh how terrible was that night to me! 
It seemed as if everybody was going to heaven but me. I 
began to reflect. I thought of the trying ordeal through 
which I had waded. I began to weep, and wept until I 
could weep no more. Night came again and found me in 
the house of God. This time I went about half way up to 
the pulpit. The meeting having begun, sinners were called 
to seek the Lord while He might be found. 

The spirit strove to bring me to bow; sinners were falling 
on all sides; mourners were rising and telling what a dear 
Savior they had found. This was too much. I yielded, 
and was assisted to the mourners bench, for I could not 
yet walk without either the assistance of a cane, a crutch, 
or some person. I prayed that night in all and every way 
I knew how, without receiving the wanted change. On the 
next evening I went again to the anxious seat. Towards 
the close of the meeting for that evening I felt that God 
for Christ's sake had pardoned all my sins. I went to 
brother John Samuels that night feeling a great deal better, 
but not thoroughly satisfied, for doubts had placed me in a 
very unpleasant condition. I consulted some of the con- 
verts as to the cause of my disconsolation. They told me 
that Satan had caused me to doubt the effectuality of God's 
grace, hence my spiritual darkness. However, as I grew 
older I also grew stronger, and was enabled by grace to say 
to Satan, " Get thee behind me." 

On the fourth Sabbath of February I was baptized, in 
company with a number of my fellow converts. The day 
was cold but the heart was warm, therefore the cold could 
do us no harm. I think that was one of my early happiest 
days, for I have seen many far happier since, and I can say 



32 The Night of Affliction 

with perfect fidelity, tluit I enjoy religion a great deal more 
now than 1 ever did before in all my life. 

For a long time after my conversion I felt that my way 
to heaven would be one of nnclouded joy and peace, such 
was my peace of mind. For months 1 never had a cross; 
indeed, when I listened to those who had a longer experi- 
ence in the christian race, I would wonder whether it would 
ever be my lot to pass through such trials and bear such 
crosses. The word of God shone as a lamp upon my path- 
way, and I could claim each promise mine. It was a cus- 
tom of my brother William Magee and myself to engage in 
secret prayer every morning within our little, humble bed- 
room, before getting ready for breakfast; and then again 
my brother, being older than I, took the lead in holding 
family devotion every morning and evening, each of us, 
with father and mother, taking turns in leading devotion 
at the faniil}' altar : — 

God of the morning, at thy voice 
The cheerful sun makes haste to rise, 

And like a giant doth rejoice 
To run his journey through the skies. 

This was a favorite In'inn of ni}^ brother William. He is 
now gone to sing with the angels in that sinless country 
whose light is the glory of God and of the lamb. My favor 
ite evenino: hvmn was : — 

The day is past and gone, 

The evening siiades appear, 
O may we all remember well 

The night of death draws near. 

I have thought of the bliss of departing from this life to 
be with Jesus as calmly as the evening draws the curtains 
of the nioht after the sunset of a summer day. O sing- to 
me of heaven when I am dying, that angels may catch the 



And Mounixg of Recovery. 33 



music of 3'our songs as I pass with them to m}^ bright home 
on high. 

Come sinof to me of heaven, 

When I'm about to die ; 
Sing songs of holy ecstasy, 
To waft my soul on high. 

There'll be no sorrow there, 

There'll be no sorrow there, 
In heaven above, where all is love, 

There'll be no sorrow there. 

Then to my raptured ear 

Let one sweet song be given ; 
Let music charm me last on earth 

And greet me first in heaven. 

On the 15th of October, m}' brothers Alfred, Samuel and 
his wife, and 1 started for Racine, Wisconsin. We ar- 
rived at Chicago the next morning, after a ride of fourteen 
hours. From thence we took passage on one of the Lake 
Michigan steamers, which in due time brought us to the 
wharf in front of the beautiful city of Racine. I was greatl}^ 
impressed with the appearance of the city; its greatest 
attraction to me was the ui-mber and beauty of its churches. 
Give me a city well laid out with God's buildings, and these 
well filled with people on the day for divine service. Hav- 
ing rested ourselves and made ourselves as much at home 
as it was possible for us to do, we made inquiries respecting 
the various schools, about their rules, terms, etc. 

Finally my brother Samuel went to see the principal of 
the cit}^ high school, Hon. W. H. McMynn. Suffice it to 
say we were gladl}' received and treated very kindly by all 
the teachers and scholars of all the departments. Having 
been examined we were sent to the intermediate department, 
in which three hundred scholars were in attendance, all of 
whom we found most agreeable; for be it remembered that 



34 The Night of Affictiox 



my brother and I were the only colored boys in the school. 
I must now enter into a short description of the honorable 
teachers of our department. The first whom I shall describe 
is Professor A. H. Flint, head master of our department, 
and teacher of mental and moral philosophy and the higher 
mathematics. He was a most excellent teacher, ruling his 
pupils with love mingled with rigor. The next teacher 
to whom I shall introduce you is Miss Ellen Porter, teacher 
of English and mathematics. This lady was very kind to 
all her pupils. " None knew her but to love ; none named her 
but to praise." Her sister Helen often assisted her in teach- 
ing; Miss Helen also taught in the third sub-department. 
While too much can not be said of all the teachers in the 
way of commendation, jet I will sa}^ that Miss Porter has 
few equals in point of moral and intellectual excellence. 

Our progress while at this school was considered better 
than that of an}' scholar in school, considering our disad- 
vantages. Having spent considerable time within those 
halls of learning, we concluded to return home. During 
our stay in Racine we had formed many pleasant associa- 
tions, whose memory we shall never forget while the vital 
fluid continues its course in our veins. I may mention the 
pleasant association I formed with the Sabbath school held 
in the First Baptist church, of which Elder Stearn was 
pastor. I was a regular attendant of the Sabbath school 
held in that church. The class to which I belonged was 
taught by Miss Lucinda Morey, a very devout young lady, 
who had early been brought to Christ, and was a member 
of the Baptist church. The next social gathering was a 
societ}' called the Benevolent Society, to which brothers 
Samuel and Alfred and I belonged; its object was to relieve 
the distressed. On the 4th of April, we gave a grand sup- 
[icr, in Union Hall, in behalf of the societ}', to which all the 



And Mouning of Recovery. 35 

members turned out in their full dress. With banners, 
upon the folds of which were various devices, floating in 
the breeze, we marched to the spacious hall. After listen- 
ing to several speeches by gentlemen who were invited for 
the occasion, we sat down to a sumptuously prepared sup- 
per. Justice having been done to the many good things 
under which the table fairly groaned, we exchanged many 
good-nights and dispersed, feeling better and happier for 
liaving joined the Benevolent Society of Racine. 

Having left school, with all its pleasant associations, we 
began to make preparations to start home. It was with 
great difficulty that I could muster courage to leave my 
teachers, for I respected them very highly. Time with his 
rapid flight brought us to the day which we had fixed for 
our departure. It was the 5th of April — I shall never forget 
it, for it was with great difficulty that the steamer could 
land. The wind ])lew fiercely from the north-east, making 
what the northerners call " a north-easter." A large portion 
of the pier was washed away, leaving but a single plank for 
the passengers to walk a distance of twenty feet. I well 
remember the tremor that seized my frame while I stood 
first looking at the angry waves which were nearly even 
with the pier, then at the plank across which I must go, or 
be left. However I was relieved of my perplexity by a 
gentleman taking me by the shoulders and hurrying me 
across. In a short time we were under way for Chicago, 
arrivino; there about 2 o'clock that afternoon, where we had 
to wait for the evening train for Shipman — our destination. 
While we were w^aiting for the train at the depot, my 
brother Alfred, to whom I had given my money for safe 
keeping, was tacitly relieved of a five dollar note of the 
money by some of the light fingered gentry of that place. 
What I should do to oet home I did not know, for we had 



36 The Night of Affliction 



just enough moiie^^ to take us both home before the other 
was stolen. All at once a happy thought entered my mind 
— for Alfred to get his ticket as he was the larger, and I 
would take what money I had and give it to the conductor, 
and ask him to let me go home for half-fare. All right so 
far. We took our seat in the train, and in a short time we 
were homeward bound as fast as the iron horse could carry 
us. The conductor very soon appeared. My heart began 
to swell with emotions of fear. What if he should not allow 
me to ride for half- fare? Before he got to me I stood up, 
and when he came with the shout, Tickets! I almost gave 
wa}^ under the feeling of depression. " Sir, I hope you will 
be kind enough to let me go for half-fare." "How far are 
3'ou going? " he said, with a cheerful voice and smiling face, 
for he saw my perturbation. "To Shipman, sir." "And 
so you want to go to Shipman for half- fare do you?" 
" Yes sir." Taking the protfered sum he answered good- 
humoredly, " You may go for this," and passed on. You 
can, dear reader, better imagine my joy than I can tell it. 

The next day about 11 o'clock, a. m., we arrived at the 
station of Shipman. With all possible haste we started 
for the house, one-half mile distant from the village. We 
met Cyrus and Lenard in the held at work. After congi-at- 
ulating them upon their good health, we started to the 
house, where we had the pleasure of meeting the light of 
home — father and mother, and the remaining members of 
the family. I shall not detain you, gentle reader, to tell 
3'ou how glad we were to see each other, and how late we 
sat up that night, talking of the things which we had seen 
during the time we had been gone: suffice it to say we luid 
a happy time. 

Durino- all this time the sore on my limb continued to 
sap my already waning strength. Occasionally a feeling 



And Morning of Rkcoverv. 37 



of joy would relievo me of the deep sadness under which 
I almost daily went. Some times I felt perfectly resigned; 
at others very impatient. All this feeling came as a natu- 
ral consequence of the continued afflictions of my limb. 
Often I would sit for hours, all the while mv mind would 
be filled with the most dismal forebodings. At length, 
thanks to His name who doeth all things well, avenues 
of usefulness opened to me, by which the monoton}^ of 
my afflicted life was relieved. The mind having been oc- 
cupied Avith things of a little profit, but a great deal 
of pleasure, I felt much better, and could sing as the pat- 
riarch Job, "I know that my Redeemer liveth;" though 
surrounded with that which is calculated to dampen the 
ardor of the most resolute, I felt that I was blessed above 
thousands, and often would say to friends, who would be 
pitying my condition, I thank God that it is no worse. 



CHAPTER V. 

ON THE ROAD OF PROGRESS. 

Teacher of a School— The Throne of Grace my Standard— School 
Exliibition--Stu(]y of Latin— School-teaching at Ridge Prairie 
--A Di5oiis-ion--Diftioulties Overcome--My Call to the Minis- 
try — A. Grand Celehrarion--On the '• Gronnds"--Adieu to 
"Hop Hollow "--Teaching at -Hhe Ridge "—Full School- 
Measles— Death of Mary Blair and William Wilson— Grief. 

Growing weary of doing nothing I immediatly resolved 
to do something, which, being put in execution, found me 
comfortabl}' situated in the beautiful little town of Jersey- 
ville, the teacher of a flourishing school. I labored in this 
capacit}^ six months, during which time I added to my 
stock of knowledge, by studing what I had not previoush' 



38 The Night of Affliction 

known. It was about the first of Jauuaiy, 1860, that I 
started for the above mentioned town, for the sole purpose 
of trying to do something to aid me in gaining the wants 
of life, and also to relieve my mind from the monotony of 
doing nothing. 

I went to my uncle P. S. Breeden and his wife Cordelia, 
both of whom were delighted to have me become the 
teacher of the day school in the Baptist church. A meet- 
ing was called. After a free expression of feeling by the 
friends interrested in the enterprise, I was duly elected as 
teacher of the village day school. With joy in my heart, 
and a prayer to almighty God for guidance, I entered upon 
the important and then new duties of a teacher. I erected 
a throne of grace on the first morning, around which all else 
was made to revolved, and which I kept Hp as long as I 
remained in that place. At the end of the first quarter an 
exhibition was given, in which the whole school partici- 
pated. It was witnessed by a large assemblage of the citi- 
zens, both white and colored. The weekly paper of the 
place spoke in the most commendable terms of the pro- 
gress of the scholars " under the efficient management of 
their worth}^ teacher, Mr. Magee." That little extract 
placed me before the world in a light in which I had 
never shone. The consequence was, I then held a position 
in the mind of the public, which naturally opened a more 
extended sphere for me to labor in. At the expiration of 
the second quarter, I left them amidst many solicitations 
by both parents and pupils to remain. ' - . _ 

I may add, that, during my stay in Jerseyville, I imbibed 
a love for classic lore, from^which I shall never recover un- 
til I have been to the font of ancient literature, and drunk 
deeply from the stream which has rendered so many minds 
fertile and strong. Pi"of. Davis agreed to teach me the 



And Morning of Recovery. 39 

rudiments of Latin if I would come to his residence, a dis- 
tance of one mile from my boarding house. I went, was 
shown what I must get up for the recitation wliich would 
take place every other day — three times a week. I took 
the prescribed task with a mind red hot, with thirst for a 
drink from the font, which, to ni}'- understanding, was 
sealed. I did as well as I could have expected, considering 
the amount of labour I had to perform. 

In 1852, I attended the Wood River Baptist Association, 
in which meeting I was greatly encouraged in my already 
strong belief in the efficacy of prayer. Among the dele- 
gates was Elder Emanuel Cartwright, a man of God, in 
whom I had the utmost confidence. Among other inci- 
dents related b^' him of the signal instances in which God 
had answered his prayer, was the following very interesting 
episode — I give it in his own language, as near as I can 
recollect the words : " I was attendino^ a meetino^ held in 
the open air ; and about the time I was read}^ to preach, a 
sudden thunder-cloud came up, such as 3'ou have often seen 
in the month of August. I prayed to my God : ' Lord, 
be pleased to stay the clouds and the rain until the service 
is over.' The services were continued, and not a drop of 
rain fell during the service, but immediately after the bene- 
diction, by the time the people were in their tents, I never 
saw such a shower of rain as fell that day." 

This narrative greatly encouraged me in my belief in the 
efflcac}' of prayer. That evening l)rother Cartwright and I, 
with a number of brethern, occupied the same room. Be- 
fore I closed my eyes to sleep that night, I begged brother 
Cartwright to pray to God for my restoration to heath. He 
promised me that he would. After the association adjourned 
and the delegates went to their respective homes, I still 
had faith in the efficacy of pra^-er, and wrote a letter to 



40 The Night of Affliction 



brother Cartwright, to remind him of his promise to pray 
for my restoration. He did pray for it, and I thank God 
that I am to-day a living monument of God's faithfuhiess. 
and of the efficacy of prayer. 

Dnrino- mv affliction Drs. INI. W. Seamon and J. W. Tra- 
bne, resident physicans in Shipman, were very kind to me, 
and did all thev could to alleviate mv snflering, in trying 
to arrest the progress of the disease. I shall ever hold 
them in grateful remembrance for their kindness to me 
dnrino- mv dark nio^ht of affliction. INIay God spare them 
to a long life of usefuUness. 

Time, with its rapid wing, brought me to the fall of 1861, 
which found me at a settlement called Ridge Prairie. 
Here I become the teacher of a large school of over forty 
scholars. In that neighborhood are two churches, one Bap- 
tist and one Methodist, which were situated in two districts; 
the consequence of this was a general discussion as to 
which the teacher should locate himself in. Of course both 
parties were anxious to share the benefits of my labour, to 
go to either of which would offend the other. Here was 
Daniel Wilkerson, the advocate for the upper district, in 
which was located the Methodist church. To my right 
stood R. Vanderburge, the advocate for it to be held in the 
lower district, in which the Baptist church was situated. 
Through the commanding eloquence of Mr. Vanderburge, 
I agreed to teach in the lower district, in which was situa- 
ted the Baptist church. This step put nearly all the Mo 
thodist brethern againt me and the school, which greatly 
depressed me for I had many dear friends in that denomi- 
nation whom I dearly loved; not only as Christians, but as 
old acquantances. 

Time went on and with it the difficult'es of the past wore 
out, and success attended -our school in so great a manner. 



And Morning op Rkcovery. 41 

that I was obliged at times to give some of the smaller 
classes to some of the advanced pupils to teach. The fall 
aud winter terms having been finished, the summer vaca- 
tions ensued, during which time I remained at home, occu- 
pying m}^ leasure moments in reviewing the various 
branches usuall}^ taught in common schools, that I might 
be more proficient by the time of the next commencement. 
For a long time previous to the spring of 1860, I felt that 
God had called me to the work of preaching the gospel. I 
tried in every wa^^ to excuse myself to myself, but without 
feeling relieved from the constant impression on my mind 
that I had a work to do in preaching the gospel. These 
thoughts occupied my mind during m}- waking hours, and 
at closing day I felt the same dissatisfaction, on account of 
my failure to discharge what was evident to my mind to be 
God's will concerning me. Sometimes I would catch my- 
self preaching away, while engaged in domestic duty about 
my father's house. One morning, while ni}' mother and 
the rest of the family were engaged in milking the cows in 
the barn ysivd, some distance from the house, I was at the 
house washing the breakfast dishes, and during that time 
m}^ mind was carried away out of myself, so that I was 
oblivious to ever3^thing, and when I came to m3'self, I was 
startled at my own voice. I was preaching at the top of 
my voice from the text " For the great day of His wrath is 
come, and who shall be able to stand." I was startled at 
myself, and ran out of the house to see if any body was 
within hearing distance. I could see no one near. And 
when mother came home, I asked her if she heard any one 
preaching that morning; she said she had not. She asked 
me why; I said: "Oh nothing;" for I was ashamed to tell 
her that I had been preaching to the empty dishes. I 
finally related my feelings to a brother, who gave me little 
4 



42 The Night of Affiction 



or no encouragement, nod this put me back further than 
ever. About six months after this conversation, I spoke 
to Elder John Livingstone about the continued impression 
1 had on my mind, from which I coukl not rest day nor 
niolit. GUI father Livingstone, for thus we addressed him, 
oave me arcat encouragement, and said, " Mv son, this is 
a clear call to the work of the ministry, and you should 
obey the call of God without delay." I then made my 
wishes known to the church, and a time was set for me to 
preach my trial-sermon, which I did on the second Sunday 
in August, 1860. From that day to this I Avas relieved of 
my anxiety of mind about the work of preaching the gos- 
pel. From that day, too, I have been regaining my health 
—both spiritual and temporal. — " To obey is better than 
sacrifice." 

On the first of August, according to previous announce- 
ment, a grand celebration took place at Hop Hollow. A 
company of us agreed to hire a hack in Edwardsville, to 
take us to the looked for place. The early morning found 
us bound for Edwardsville, a distance of five miles, in a 
two horse wagon. Having arrived at the city mentioned, 
we immediately changed the clumsy country wagon for n 
l)eautiful hack. A few minutes were spent by our dear 
friend Joseph Dority, in detaching and attaching the train, 
when, all being ready, we started for the noted place of the 
resort of excursionists. At an early hour we arrived in 
Upper Alton, where a large number of our people, in bug- 
gies, wagons, on horseback and on foot, joined the proces- 
sion ; further on we overtook numbers, whose joyful counte- 
nance betokened a happy heart, and whose eyes seemed to 
flash in view of the cause of their assembling, and in view 
of the distant prospect of a natal day, in which millions of 
their brethem should be l)orn again — liorn from the womb 



And Morning of Recoverv. 4 



Q 



of slavery into the bright day which beams with the rays 
of liberty, in every ray of which shone the living charac- 
ters of the natural endowment of the human family — life, 
liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We read in the dis- 
tance, upon the folds of the banner of mercy, which was 
being fanned by the breeze of heaven, the inscription 
which engaged the wondering gaze of angels, and the com- 
passion of the eternal God, the condescension of our Lord 
and Saviour Jesus Christ— Life. Let us thank God for this 
guarantee, for without this, our existance would be miser- 
able indeed. The faithful could see the lacerated (then 
bondmen) emerging from his awful sepulchre, with eyes 
upturned to God, his deliverer, hands outstreched to seize the 
proffered boon. Behold him, hard by the side of the flag 
of liberty, triumphantly shouting to his former oppressors, 
<' You have drawn my heart's best blood with that of my 
fathers, mothers and children : but see ! I bleed there no 
more, for God has sent his angels to bind up all these 
wounds which thou didst inflict in thy hellish fury.*' God 
did send his forked lightning to scatter the cruel oppres ■ 
sor, and to tell them in tones of thunder which continued 
to belch forth its terrible threaten ings from the mouth of 
the cannon for four consecutive years- 

At eleven o'clock we were on the ground, where we met a 
number of dear friends, some of whom we had not seen 
for years. After the usual greeting of friends, with many a 
warm press of the hand, and the quiet succession of ques- 
tions and answers, we went to the riverside. Already the 
steam of the approaching steamer gave us notice of her 
near arrival. On nearing the shore, we discovered that it 
was indeed a steamer from St. Louis, Mo., which was well 
filled with happy pleasure seekers from that city. The 
vast crowd having debarked, removed in stately grandeur 



44 The Night of Affliction 



to the place prepared for the speakers. After the speeches 
had been delivered, the general preparation ensued for dis- 
patching the many good things, in the shape of turkey's, 
chickens, pies, cakes, etc. Soon the gathering twilight bade 
us seek our homes, many of which were far remote. In a 
short time we had bidden adieu to the many pleasing 
scenes which were associated with our visit to Hop Hollow, 
and the celebration of the First of August. 

In September, 1862, I resumed teaching m}^ school in 
Ridge Prairie. This time I was hired by the trustees of 
the upper district. I opened my school in the little Metho- 
dist chapel, with about fifteen pupils. Additions were re- 
ceived until the number of forty or fifty scholars was 
reached. Everything seemed to be in the w^ay of progress, 
w^iicli was evinced more and more by the eagerness, 
with which they sought the attainment of still higher sub- 
jects. All was well, until about the lOfch of January, when 
the measles broke out, and so infected the school, that I 
thought it best to discontinue it. Many of m}^ dear schol- 
ars never returned to their school on earth, but went to 
their Father m glory. I must mention two, whom I loved 
as I never loved children before, especiall}^ little Mary 
Blair, eldest daughter of Mr. Henry Blair, a wealth}^ farmer 
in Ridge Prairie. She was the best child I ever saw, and 
could learn faster and recite her lessons better, than an}' of 
the scholars. The disease took her while she was attend- 
ing school. So anxious was she to learn, that no weather 
prevented her attending school. At length it was dis- 
covered that the disease had taken hold of her vitals with 
an unrelenting grasp, to which she succumbed after an ill- 
ness of two weeks. I could not have wept more bitterly 
around the grave of an own dear relative than I did at the 
grave of dear little Mary Blair. The next who fell a vie- 



And Morning of Recovery. 45 



tim to death from the same disease was little William Wil- 
son, who was a dear little fellow, and passionately- fond of 
his teacher. He was alwaj's prepared, when asked about 
any little misdemeanor, to tell the whole truth. 

Soon after this I bade the pleasant associates of Ridge 
Prairie farewell, as the season of spring preparation was 
approaching. Often I advert to the scenes of my sojourn, 
as teacher of " the country school " with mingled feelings 
of joy and sadness, hoping for the happy day, when 
friend shall meet friend in the congregation of the blessed. 



CHAPTER VI. 

AN AWFUL TRIAL. 

Limb Worse— Dr. Pope— Painful Examination— Death of the Bone 
—An Operation Necessary— Return to Wood River— Getting 
My Mind Composed— Living Near to God— Taking Leave of 
My Fathers Family— Rev. J, H. Johnson— Steamer bound for 
St. Louis, Mo.— Reflections— Arrival at P. G. Wells— Consul- 
.tation with Dr. Pope— The Day of Suftering-The Sisters' 
Hospital — The Doctor's Apartment — The Hour is Come- 
Nearer, My God, to Thee— Sensation— Tlie Surgical Operation 
—Back to Consciousness — Start lor My Boarding House- 
Dreadful Sickness— The Morning Brinfrs Relief— Conversation 
—Meditation— Growing Better— A Few Words About Elder 
J. H Johnson— Ready to Go Home— Kind Friends. 

Towards the close of autumn of the yetir 1862, my limb 
ffrew worse. As the autumnal skies were dimmed with the 
smoke of the waning Indian summer, the leaves of the tall 
oak yielding his late rich foliage to the quickly approach- 
ing winter, so did the strength of my life begin to fade 
from the withering effects of the terrible disease from 
which I had suffered for many lono^ dreary years. I found 



4G The Night op Affliction 



tUat somethino^ must be done to relieve niv sufferiiio- or I 
must die. llavino- heard of a celebrated surgical doctor, 
Dr. Pope, of St. Louis, Mo., 1 went to see him on the 22nd 
of December. 

Having made up my mind to meet the worst, I expected 
something ver^^ severe. He very closely examined the 
limb, probing it to the bone, which operation nearly made 
me faint, so great was the pain. I was informed by the 
doctor that whatever might have been the first cause, it 
was now a bad case of necrosis, or death of the bone, 
and that an operation would have to be performed In 
order to take awa}^ the dead portion of bone. As might 
have been expected, this announcement filled me with um- 
mitigated terror. I returned home, thence to Wood River, 
where I had been teaching school since the beginning of 
September. I told m}' dear pastor, Elder J. H. Johnson, 
what doctor Pope had said. He expressed his usual sym- 
pathy", with the hope that I might survive the operation. 
Sister Johnson, his wife, told me that her husband should 
accompan}'^ me, when I got read}^ to go down to have the 
operation performed. I concluded that I would not have 
the operation performed until the expiration of the spring 
term. It took all that time to get my mind reconciled to 
submit to the operation. 

During that time I lived very near the throne of grace, 
for I was uncertain as to the result of so dreadful an under- 
taking. Many had died from the severity" of operations, 
the same which I must soon submit too, not knowing 
whether I should live throuoh it or not. Towards the 
close of the school, I began to make preparations to start. 
I went home to see my father's family", and to tell them 
good-by for perhaps the last time. I could tell all fare- 
well but my dear mother, whose heart was too full, in vie^y 



And Moumng of RECOvtiiV. 47 



of the eventful future. Ah! dear inotlier, 1 a})preciate 
tliy loving- kindness, and will never forget the obligations 
of a son to a mother. Young men, be kind to your 
mothers, for not many know the depth of a mother's love; 
it is strong as death and as constant as the sun. 

With tears freel}' flowing and heart anxiously beating, I 
took a long, long look at the house and home of my kin- 
dred dear, for, as far as I knew, the last time. Ver^^ soon 
I was borne at a rapid rate to Wood River, a distance of 
sixteen miles, to the residence of Rev. J. H. Johnson, at 
whose house I remained till next morning. Early in the 
morning Elder Johnson, his son, J. P. Johnson, and I 
were ready to start to Alton, from which place to take the 
steamer for St. Louis. In a short time we w^ere comfort- 
ably situated on the beautiful steamer B. M. Run3'an, bound 
for St. Louis. It w^as a beautiful day, it being the last day, 
of March; the trees were in their full livery of green ; the 
biids sang sweetly their morning lay; nature seemed to be 
in a state of silent serenity. All of this had a tendency 
to awaken emotions of joy and sadness. As we glided 
down the placid w^aters of the Mississippi, I took a silent, 
long look at the beautiful trees on either side of the river, 
saying within, •' Shall I ever behold this again ? " An 
hour and a half having elapsed, we found ourselves at the 
wharf of the Alton and St. Louis Packet Company. We 
w^ere met by Mr. Cunningham, wJio drove us to 33 Gay 
street, St. Louis, to the residence of Elder J. R. Anderson, 
who had secured me a boarding place at the residence of 
Mr. P. G. Wells, at No. 56 Gay street. 
We were ushered in by brother Anderson, and intro- 
uced to Mr. and Mrs. Wells in his usual affable manner, 
■laving been made welcome by our worth}- friends, Mr. 
vVells and his wife, we began to ask about the doctor whom 



48 The Night of Affliction 

I bad come to see. After dinner we went to the doctor's 
residence on the corner of Tenth and Locust. I informed 
him that it was I who came to see him in the winter. He 
told me in a ver}'^ few words to come the next morning to 
the Sister's Hospital, where he would attend to my case. 
I left his house with a heavy heart. 

On the morning of the 1st of April, 1863, 1 went, in com- 
pany with Elder Johnson and Mr. Wells, to the place as- 
signed. On the way I almost sunk under the pressure of 
what I had not 3'et experienced. Several times I thought 
it a matter of impossibility for me to walk to the hack 
stand. At length we arrived at the stand, procured a hack, 
and started to the place of operation. In a short time we 
were in front of a splendid, large brick building — this is 
the Sisters of Charity Hospital. With every limb shaking 
I descended from the hack and went to the door, where 
we were meet my one of the singularly-dressed Sisters of 
that institution. On asking to be shown the way to Dr. 
Pope's apartment, she kindly led the way to a stairway, 
saying, " His room is in the third story." Up we went 
until we reached the room in question, when to my great 
astonishment the room was filled with students and patients 
(Dr. Pope is president of a large medical college). The 
time soon came for me to place myself on the long table 
made for the purpose of performing operations. I was 
told in a commanding tone to get ready, and pl?ice myself 
on the table. This so terrified me that 1 could not collect 
myself sufficient for some time to make the needed prepa- 
ration. Some of the physicians attempted to help me, 
which broke the stupor into which I had fallen. I placed 
myself on the table, the doctor began to probe my limb, I 
began to scream, from pain, he cried: "give him the chlo- 
roform!" A towel was saturated with that fluid, and 



And Mokning of Recovery. 49 



placed firmly over mv face, being told to shut my eyes, and 
breathe hard and deep. I called brother Johnson, and 
took hold of his hand, asking him to stand by me, thinking 
that if I could only hold his hand during the operation I 
should be able to stand it. The table was ordered to be 
turned around, which disconnected us. Immediately the 
table was surrounded by twenty or thirty doctors. In 
the meantime Elder Johnson made his way through the 
crowd to my head, where he stood with one hand on my 
head and the other on my heart. The doctors told me re- 
peatedly to shut my eyes, which I did not heed, until being 
told by Elder Johnson, my earthly safe-guard, I shut 
them. 

After a short time I felt the drug had taken effect by 
the peculiar sensation which I experienced. I felt like 
I often have thought I shall feel when dying— a going 
away into another state — my mind becoming lighter — 
confused sounds, like the ringing of little bells was heard: 
a feeling of great quietude stole over my mind. I heard one 
of the doctors say, " Did you eat a hearty breakfast this 
mornino? -' I did not answer. He asked again, to which I 
answered, '' Yes " I heard them say, "Give him some 
more chloroform, " for the doctors had already begun to 
make the incision, as I was afterward informed by brethern 
Johnson and Wells. While the operation was being per- 
formed, a doctor held each of my wrists, with watch in 
hand to see how 1 was doing. At one time, while the doc- 
tor was cuttino- awav, I involuntariallv withdrew my left 
hand from the doctor, who held it, and thrust it to the place 
where the doctor was cutting. This was caused by some 
kind of sympathy, for I was wholly insensible of any pain. 

At last the incision was made, the portion of dead bone 
discovered, the forceps applied, and a portion of decayed 
5 



50 The Night of Affliction 



bone drawn out. But there was a piece of bone, which 
seemed unyielding, to remove which the doctor had to take 
a small chisel and hammer, and break it to pieces, before 
he could remove it. You will doubtless be astonished when 
I tell you that to all this I^w^as insensible. At the expira- 
tion of thirty minutes it was all done, the limb bound up, 
and many of the doctors preparing to leave. About the 
time most of the doctors had gone, I awoke as it were from 
a deep sleep. I looked around and saw the doctor replace- 
ing his lancets, knives, etc. I felt exceedingly happ}-, 
happy to know that I had survived the terrible operation. 
I raised up, and with my hand extended to the doctor, I 
grasped his hand and said : " The Lord will bless you for 
this." Some of the students asked: "How do you feel?" 
to which I answered, " I feel happy. " I really meant what 
I said, for I was indeed happ}^ During the time of the 
operation, they said, I was singing and talking, preaching 

and praying. 

All things having been made ready, we prepared to go to 
the carriage. I walked down the three flights of stairs 
unassisted, notwithstanding that eighteen pieces of bone 
had just been taken out of my limb. Arriving at my 
boarding house on Gay street, I was assisted to the fire, 
w^here I sat only a few minutes, when I got dreadful sick. 
In haste I was assisted to my room. That night I thought 
I should havevdied before morning, so great were the pains, 
that it was impossible to restrain myself from tossing from 
one side of the bed to the other, mad with pain. Brother 
Johnson was in the room, but he was so troubled that he 
could not rest. Often I heard him sigh deeply, and walk 
hurriedly up and down the floor, as one in great distress 
of mind. Towards morning the pain, like the shadows of 
night before the rays of the morning sun, began to withdraw 



And Morning of Recovery. 51 



itself. I awoke into full consciousness about four o'clock 
in the morning, when I called him to come and lie down, 
for he was sitting close to the grate of smouldering coals. 
The dim light of the still burning lamp lent a peculiar 
mellow appearance to the whole room. I began to converse 
with brother Johnson about the sufferings which I had en- 
dured during the night, and about what time I began to 
feel better. He answered and said to me: " About the time 
of your great sufferings, I earnestly prayed to the Lord to 
relieve you of your sufferings. I thought, what, if you 
should die before morning, far away from your relatives. 
While these thoughts were revolving in my mind, a thought 
came to me to try the strength of prayer, which I did, and 
1 thank God* that he has heard me. " 

The busy throng of the great city had begun to awake 
into activity. We turned our conversion to the scenes of 
terror which are enacted under the cover of night in great 
cities, saying that a few moments ago the great city was 
sleeping, now it is the great city awaking, fitting type 
of the judgment of the great day, when millions of beings 
shall be called to awake from the sleep of death unto the 
resurrection. The righteous shall be as a great city awak- 
ins: iuto life and immortalitv; but the wicked shall be as 
were the great cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, awaking 
only to find that every righteous lot has been taken by 
cherubic legions to mansions in glory. Thus passed the 
few hours before the family arose. Though I had suffered 
so greatly during the night, I felt in the morning to be the 
subject of peculiar blessing. Oh blessed Jesus! thou from 
whom cometh light, life, and salvation, thou dost regard the 
afflicted poor, and in tendei- compassion, dost bind up the 
broken in heart, and heal their wounds. O my eternal God, 
may I always see mercy in the dispensations of thy provi- 



52 'liiE Night of Affliction 



dence, that when thou liftest the rod it be tempered with 
mere}', and that when thou smitest, thou smitest to heal. 

I continued to groAv better and better until I was able to 
rise without being assisted. Elder Johnson remained until 
he saw that I was out of danger ; then he went home. Dear 
reader, permit me to turn aside from the subject of this nar- 
rative to sav a few^ words about Elder J. H. Johnson, avIio 
was so solicitous about my welfare. He was the one who 
baptized me, and who had often given me encouragement 
in preaching the gospel. He was a man wdiom eveiy one 
loved that knew him. Alw^ays ready to give a word of con- 
solation to the dejected. He has since gone to his rest. 
Though gone he is not forgotten, for his w'ork is still follow- 
ing him, and I dare say will continue to go on, to bless 
many that are yet unborn. 

On the 10th of April I w^as so far recoA'ered as to be able 
to go home. I found my brother, A. S. Magee, who, having 
come to St. Louis on business, was a great help in assisting 
me to get home. I must not forget to mention the kind- 
ness with which I was treated by Mr. and Mrs. Wells, 
and many of the friends who kindly visited me. Brother 
Thos. Reasoner deserves special mention for the kind atten- 
tion which he gave me in dressing m}^ wound every day 
as long as I staj^ed in St. Louis. May Heaven bless all 
wdio in an}^ way administered to my necessity. 



And Morning of Recovery. 53 



CHAPTER VII. 

THE MORNING COMETH, 

A Yij^ht Thoaglit--Iviio\vleclge by Experience— Hopes of Recov- 
ery—The A<socitition-Oraination--C:illed to the Pastorate of 
Salem BiptlsL Church— God Prospers the Work-Baptismal 
Scene— Called to the Pastorate of Piasa Church-Tlie Con- 
vention-Elder Troy— Failing Health-Wood River Associa- 
tion-Thirst tor Knowledge— A Plan to Secure It-Prospects 
Fallen— Call to the Pastorate in Springfield, Illinois—Letter 
from Bio. Troy — Baptist Church in Toronto, Canada— 
Domesticity--All Ends Well. 
Night is the emblem of sorrow and trouble; the time 
when all things that would captivate the mind, are w^-apt in 
sable o-loom; it is then that many an anxious mother sits at 
the bed side of her sick son, daughter, or husband, waiting 
for the coming day. Night precedes the day; it may he 
long and dark, but it has a morning when the rising dawn 
pales the night, the shout of the morning resounds from 
east to west, which is taken up by ten thousand voices in 
nature, all of which proclaim — the morning cometh. The 
soul, by sin oppressed, falls at the loot of the cross, and 
with blinded eyes cries, " What must I do to be saved. " 
Faith points him with her radiant finger to the cross; and 
when he beholds him who died upon it for his salvation, he 
feels the sun of righteousness rising in his soul, chasing 
away the night of death and the shadow^s of unbelief. The 
morning has come; the poor child of afiiiction, amid the 
pangs of dark despair, often cries out in the anguish of mind 
and body, ^' when shall the morning come." Hope tells 
him of a medicine yet untried, which will have the eflTect to 
break the spell of the night of sutfering. With joyful 
haste he reaches forth the hand of his confidence, to take 
the prott'ered aid, which comes in the light of hope, but 



54 The Night of Affliction 



returns in the garh of despair. Thus disappointment suc- 
seeds disappointment, till hope, the silver-winged messen- 
ger that comes to all, seems to have taken its final flight. 
Man's extremity is often God's opportunity. When self 
has worked itself clear out of self, then He who is might}^ 
to save interposes to bring the wanted object. I know this 
to have been so with me b}' that best of teachers — experi- 
aiice. For mau}^ j^ears I tried everything that imagination 
could concieve of, or that any person could tell o\\ and ull 
to no purpose. At last the Lord took me under Ids guid- 
ance, and by means of his appointment, gave me to hope 
for better days to come. The time of my entire recovery is 
not come, but, I believe it is in prospect. Already my 
heart says, " The morning cometh. " Yes, by the blessing 
of God, the sore that is now daily saping my strength, shall 
soon be healed thoroughly-. May God speed the day 
according to his own will. My soul shall rest in hope, and 
sing as I pass through the mists of affliction — " The morn- 
ing cometh. " 

At the meeting of the association in August, 18G3, with 
the Piasa church, I was offered for ordination. I was 
closel}- examined b}^ a committee of ministers, who, after 
due deliberation, thought it advisable to consummate their 
determination, b3^ the laying on of hands on the following 
Sunday. I was therefore publicly ordained to the work of 
the ministry, on Sunda}- afternoon, between one and two 
o'clock, in the presence of hundreds of spectators, both 
white and colored. In the following September I was 
called to the pastorate of Salem church, on Wood River, in 
which capacity I labored for one year. In October, bv the 
blessing of God, we began a series of meetings, which were 
abundantly blessed of God, in the conversion of 15 or 16 
souls. Many old backsliders were Teclaimed. The church 



And Morning of Recovery. 55 



was in a blaze of prosperity. The meeting continued three 
weeks. Every night the church was filled to its greatest 
capacity, man}^ were obliged to remain out doors. In 
November we visited the baptismal waters twice. The first 
time I immersed nine in the name of the Holy Trinity. 
The second time I immersed five. The scene was one of 
great interest, it being witnessed by many from all parts 
of the surrounding country. I will mention here, that two 
of those whom I immersed were sons of the late Rev. J. H. 
Johnson, one of whom I am happy to state has begun to 
preach Jesus. Some of those who were then baptized are 
gone to their rest in glory. They have fought the good 
fight of faith, and are now at their rest — the rest prepared 
for the people of God. Immediately after this I was called 
to take the oversight of Piasa Church, in supplying them 
with preaching and breaking of bread once in ever}^ month. 
I accepted and labored with much acceptance as long as 
I remained in the country. In the spring of 1864 I went to 
meet a called convention in St. Louis, Mo. There I met 
Elder Troy, of Canada West, with whom I had much conver 
sation about the one object of my desire — education. Find- 
ing him to be a man of more than ordinary intelligence, 
and that he was of the same mind as I in regard to educa- 
tion, I therefore unhesitatingly unbosomed myself to him 
with regard to my longing desire for an opportunity of fin- 
ishing my education in all its departments. We separated, 
but did not forget each other, as will be seen hereafter. 
During the summer my health began to grow worse, and it 
struck my mind, that a northern climate would be much 
better for my health than that in which I then lived. 
Therefore I wrote a full letter to Elder Troy, telling him of 
my failing health, and asking him if he could secure for 
me a situation as a teacher in the Windsor colored school, 



56 The Night of Affliction 

at the same time telling him of the approaching associa- 
tion, which was to take place in Jacksonville, saying that I 
would be pleased to see him there. We met, but without 
affecting anything, for the school w^as supplied, and the 
church was expecting Elder Sneethen to take the pastorate, 
or I could have had the pastoral charge of it. 

Time passed ou and still ni}' thirst for learning increased. 
I happened to think of a plan by wdiich I thought I should 
be able to facilitate the obtaining of the much wanted tres- 
ure. I went to St. Louis and laid the plan before my friend 
Mr. Wells. It was this : — to get my life insured for two 
thousand dollars, and put the policy in the hands of some 
good man, who would let me have a few hundred dollars to 
finish my education. I went down to the insurance office 
and told the agent my intentions; he told me it would be 
a capital idea, and that I could give no better securit}*. 
The next thing to be done, before preceeding any further, 
w^as to find that good man, who would take the policy, and 
lend me the required amount to support me two years at 
school. He could not be found, and the consequence was 
a dashing of my fair prospects to the ground. Friends, you 
may learn from this how great was my desire for knowledge 
— that I was willing to pawn the insurance policy of my 
life to obtain it. 

In October, 1864, I was called to the pastorate of the 
Baptist church, in Springfield, Illinois, and accepted; but 
owing to the unwillingness of their former pastor to give 
up what he claimed, his right to a refusal, I handed in my 
resignation. In the mean time I received a letter from 
Elder Troy, stating that he had been to the city of Toronto, 
and that the Baptist church of that place had authorized 
him to get them a minister, and that he wanted me to go 
immediately to the city of Toronto, C. W. That he would 



And Mohning of Recovery. 57 



meet me at u little town calldl Atlanta, at wlilcii time he 
woiikl tell me more about it. We duly met, arrangements 
Avere made as to the probable best course for me to pursue. 
My mind told me that Toronto was the place for me. 

Prospects began to brighten in regard to the opportuni- 
ties of learning which I had so long sought. I asked man y 
questions about the churches, institutions of learning, and 
the situation of the city. The answers brought me the most 
complete satisfaction. Ere we parted my mind was filled 
with visions bright, in which I felt myself hastening with 
eager steps to the vast fields of learnings the amply filled 
chapel with attentive, devout worshipers. I remained with 
Elder Troy about one week, stopping at the various cities 
and towns, in which he exhibited his ver}^ excellent pano- 
rama Having made all preparations neccessary for star- 
ting for the far tamed shores of Canada, I was informed 
that my little brother Lenard had been persuaded to leave 
his home, to go into the army as a substitute for one of our 
neighbors. The dastardly act was accomplished by this 
man, whose name I will not mention, and his accomplices. 
This event nearly distracted my aged mother, in so much, 
that she appeared completel}^ overcome with grief. Her 
grief was aggravated by the taunting remarks of the poor 
cowards, that " it does not make any difference, it is only 
a nigger. " This shows how much wickedness and coward- 
ice they were possessed of. He feared to go himself; he 
was also an inveterate hater of our race, who were not good 
enough to go to the common schools in his sight; but the 
nigger was plenty good to be shot at instead of the white 
man. I immediath^ told mother that I would accompany 
her, and assist in getting him out of the army, for he had 
alread}^ gone without getting his promised money, which 
was only two hundred and twenty five dollars. The next 



58 The Night op Affliction 

morning found us on board the cars, bound for Spring'field, 
Illinois. On arriving there, we went to our good friend, Mr. 
Jackson, preparatory- to going to the Govenor to tiy to get 
my brother released. We went to his excellenc}^ the Go- 
venor, and found that the disposition of those matters 
rested solely with the war-department, that we should go 
to some General in the citv, who would tell us what to do. 
We went to him, and related the circumstances of the case; 
he referred us to another General out at camp Butler, about 
five miles distant from the cit}'. Then we had to go to 
Jacksonville, the place where he was enlisted, to get more 
particulars respecting it. After this we were referred back 
to camp Butler. All appeared to be against the probability 
of securing his release. He had been examined and returned 
to the camp as being fit for the serAdce. Just as we were 
turning to take leave of the camp, with hearts big with 
grief, ni}' attention was directed to a very gentlemanly 
looking person, whom m}' mother addressed: "Sir, my son 
was persuaded to run away from home to join the army; 
he went without my consent; he is also under age, and I 
fear his strength is not sufficient for the task of a soldier. " 
"How old is your son?" asked the General. "Fourteen, 
sir. " " I will have him sent for, madame, and if after his 
examination again there is any chance for him he shall be 
released. " He was sent for and was again brought before 
the army ph3-sicans. While he was being examined, I 
breathed a silent pray to Him who holds the reins of uni- 
versal government for the release of ni}' brother for my 
dear mother's sake. My mother stood near me in a pensive 
mood, doubtless sending a praj'er to God, with that fervor, 
such as a mother alone can command. In a few minutes 
the General appeared, saying: "Your son is dismissed, and 
will be home in a few days." It is impossible for me to at- 



And Morning of Recovery. 59 

tempt fi description of 1113' mother's deep heart-felt joj, 
which could onl}^ be expressed with tears, wdiich were 
freely shed. I remained in Springfield until his papers 
were made out, wdien I brought him home. 

I am constrained to say, "The Lord is my refuge and 
strength, a very present help in trouble." 



CHAPTER VIII. 

CANADIAN PROSPECTS. 

Christmas at Home— My Mother's Joj^— New- Year's Day— On My 
Way to Canada — Toronto— The Church— Sabbath School- 
First Sabbath in that Pulpit— Called— A Series of Meetingjs— 
Great Revival— Baptismal Scene — Large Audience— Living 
for Jesus— Study of Latin— Home on a Visit — Alton and St. 
Louis— First of August Celebration — Springfield, Illinois- 
Funeral of VVm. H. Magee— A Letter to the Church— Rev. 
De Baptlste— Windsor — British Soil— Baptist Church in De- 
troit—Baptist Church in Windsor— Home again— Library 
burned. 

Christmas-day came, and with it the usual happy greet 
iugs. Again the whole family were gathered around the 
Christmas dinner save two, one was far to the west, amid 
the scenes of the Rocky Mountains, in quest of the fleeting 
treasures of earth. The other was fifteen miles distant, 
among the festivities of his own happy home. Robert, 
my nephew, had just returned home from the w^ar, on a 
sixt}' days' furlough. Mother, as usual, had spared no 
pains to make home and all connected with it happy. It 
was her chief delight to have "her bo^'S " around hei- at 
least once a year, that she might have an opportunity 
of showing, in various ways, her appreciation of that for 
which she alone wished to live — her ftimilv. During the 



o 



GO The Night of Apflictiox 



day, and especial!}^ at dinner, my heart was filled with 
sadness, when my mother addressed me and my brother: — 
'• We are liere together this Christmas, but the Lord only 
knows where we shall be the next." It must be remem- 
bered that my brother Cyrus was eomino- with me to oo to 
school. New year's da}' came with its gladdening scenes, 
but it brought no joy to me, for my thoughts were occupied 
with the present and the immediate future. 

On Wednesday, the 17th of January, 1865, we started foi 
Springfield en route for Canada, touching at Chicago and 
Detroit. At the latter place, we took the Grand Trunk for 
Toronto, arriying at about nine o'clock at Saturday- night 
the 20th. Haying been directed by Elder D. W. Anderson, 
to go to iNIrs. Hollins, in Queen street, on arriving we told 
the cabman to driye us there, to which he responded by 
placing us snugly in his sleigh (for the snow was deep) 
among the heayy buffalo robes, with which he was well 
provided. Away we went, at a rapid rate, to the place 
where I had never been before. In a few minutes we were 
ushered into the residence of Mrs. Hollins, but finding- 
there was no one there but a few young men and women 
(for Mrs. Hollins had retired), I thought I had better go 
down to the shop, where Mr. Hollins was; so suiting the 
action to the thought, we engaged the driver to take us 
there. We found the deacon, a very affible old gentleman, 
and passed the CA'cning very ])leasantly. Next morning 
being Sunday, I was anxious to see the church. After 
breakfast, we went to Sabbath school, where we found quite 
an agreeable propect, under the superintendency of Mr. R. 
Thomas. I was very much pleased with the chapel, but a 
little disappointed with the congregation, as it was rather 
small — a common thing, I afterwards learned, in the mor- 
ning. In the aftei-noon every thing was miuh Uioi'e intei-- 



And ^Iokmng of Rkcovkky. 61 



esting, congregation larger, singing better, and every hody 
seenied to be " in the Spirit on the Lord's day/' Every 
body's attention seemed to have been tnrned to me — I mean 
their ocnhir attention. I could frequently hear ^vhispers 
from all sides:— "I wonder if that is the minister?" 

The service being concluded, I v.-as introduced to a great 
many of the brethren, whom I found to be of the most 
amiable character, and I am proud to say that opinion has 
been sustained to the present day, and, if any thing, many 
have shown themselves more and more l)enevolent. I 
never saw a lot of people, who seemed to be more willing 
to do what is right, than did these people — indeed, they 
w^ere exemplary. 

The next Sunday was the time for me to appear before 
the congregation, to be judged by them as to whether they 
would choose me as their pastor. I was perfectly indif- 
ferent about making anv special preparation for the occa- 
sion, trusting in the Lord, as I always try to do, for guid- 
ance. I took my text in the morning from the Psalms: — 
" The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we arc 
glad.." I treated it in two ways— temporal and spiritual. 
Jn the former part I adverted to the great things the Lord 
has done for the whole race of man. But I referred par- 
ticularly to what great things the Lord has done for us as a 
race, in lifting us from the horrible pit of slavery to the 
rock of sweet liberty. In the afternoon I preached from 
the Psalms Ixxxiv. 11:— "For the Lord God is a sun and 
shield, etc." 

I continued to fill the desk from that time until I was 
permanently called to the pastorate, which took place on the 
Tth of February, 1S65. 

Immediately after my arriA'al, we began a series of meet- 
inos at brother Tom Williams, in Agnes street. The in- 



'&^ 



62 The Night of Affliction 



terest continued until the house was so densly crowded, as 
to demand a removal of the meetings to a more commo 
dious room. Having been solicited, I took the responsi- 
bility of removing the meeting to the chapel. At first, the 
congregation was very meagre, but when the Holy Spirit 
began to stir up the old Christians, the light began to burn 
so bright, that the influence of its hallowed beams began 
to spread far and wide, until the chapel was crowed every 
night with both white and colored people, seemingly from 
eveiy quarter. 

To enter into a minute description of that great out- 
pouring of God's Spirit, would defy the descriptive power 
of the most powerful intellect. Every evening at half past 
seven o'clock, the chapel would be so crowded, that it was 
veiy difhcult to find room for the man}^ that were earn- 
estly seeking the salvation of their souls. As the 
meeting grew older the interest waxed stronger, and the 
Holy Spirit began to do the work of regeneration. Some 
nights as man}^ as five or six would rise, telling the glad 
news that the Lord had done all things well. Some were 
converted after they had left the chapel for the evening. 
Sister Hollius house was a great gospel hospital, which 
was crowded with anxious inquirers daily while the meet- 
ings continued. One lad}^ was so powerfully wrought 
upon that she could not come from the place where she 
was sitting about mid way of the chapel. She was 
brought forward to the anxious seat, where she la^- for 
some time, cold and motionless, apparently dead. But 
when the fire from Heaven came, and God from glory 
spoke peace to her soul, she arose from there, telling the 
news in loud hallelujahs. This glorious feast lasted nearly 
eight weeks. 

The next scene of interest took place at the baptismal 



And Morning of Recovery. 63 

font, in the baptistry of the Rev. Dr. Caldicott, pastor of 
the Bond Street Baptist church. The first baptizing took 
place on the evening of the first of March, at wliich time I 
immersed twenty willing, happy souls in the name of the 
Father, and in the name of the Son, and in the name of the 
Holy Ghost. The Dr. had given notice from his pulpit on 
the Sunday previous that a baptizing of members into tlie 
fellowship of the Queen Street Baptist Church would take 
place on the following Weduesdaj' evening. Long before 
we got read}' to begin the exercises, the house was densely 
crowded, there being fifteen hundred persons present. I 
spoke briefl}' from John x. 9 : — " I am the door." I had 
never before spoken to so large a congregation, therefore I 
felt a little intimidated, until the H0I3" Spirit came to my 
assistance. After the sermon, the candidates repaired to 
the room immediately in the rear of the pulpit, there being 
a nice arrangement for the female candidates to come 
through a door under the platform of the pulpit, but so 
ingeniously arranged as to appear to come through the 
pulpit. 

The second baptizing took place on the 16th of the same 
month, in the presence of a large audience. This time we 
baptized sixteen. That and the previous baptizing con- 
stituted the most happy periods of my life. The light of 
the Saviour's countenance seems to have shone upon my 
pathway for months afterward, insomuch that I seldom 
entered the sacred desk without feeling the Saviour nigh, 
aiding me in the ministration of the word. I could wish 
to have remained in such a frame as that, then the dut}' 
of preaching the gospel would be all my theme. I have 
reason to thank God for the continuation of his o-oodness 
in permitting me to feel a goodly degree of the power of 
the Spirit, whenever I attempt to speak in his name. 



64 The Night of Affliction 



Since that time, some of those whom 1 baptized have 
gone to their rest, the}' having fought the good fight, 
which was of short duration, have laid down the weapons 
of their warfare, tlie last enemy being conquered — faith 
and hope being exchanged for the fruition of heaven. 

Not wishing to lose any time, and desiring to reap the 
golden harvest for which the sickle of the mind had grown 
rusty in waiting, and to facilitate this operation, I engaged 
the services of Mr. Clias. E. Cumraings, a former student 
of the Toronto Grammar School, to teach me the Latin, 
until such time as my pastoral duties would permit me to 
enter some of the ver}^ excellent high schools of the city. 
He was engaged for three months, but before the expira- 
tion of that time he took a notion to go to St. Louis, lor 
the purpose of teaching school; he, however, supplied his 
place b}^ a Mr. Alfred Baker, student of the Grammar 
School. I continued under his teaching three months, 
then I went home on a six weeks visit, to see my friends, 
and father, mother, brothers, and sisters. I left the city 
of Toronto on' the 10th da}' of July, 1865, for home, arriv- 
ing there on the 12th, found all well, except my mother, 
who was greath' afflicted by a fall from a cherrytree, wdiich 
she had climbed for the purpose of gathering cherries. 
By the goodness of God, she was permitted to get much 
better before I left for my field of labor. In about a 
week after arriving home, I went to see ni}- old friend. 
Elder W. W. Stewart. It being late in tlie evening when 
I got there, the family had retired. But a loud knock 
brought the reverend gentleman to the door, who was as 
much surprised to see me as he would have been had one 
risen fiom death. I preached for him the next Sunda}^ 
and Monday morning found me on board the cars, bound 
for St. Louis, Missouri. 1 went to the residence of Elder 



And Morning of rvEcovEin'. 65 



Livingstone, where I was veiy soon followed by my es- 
teemed friend Chas, Cummings. In the afternoon of the 
next day, I visited, with mucli pleasure, the school of 
which Mr. Cummings and Miss Stanly- were the teachers. 
I was very much pleased to see the large number of adults 
and children, who hitherto had been, by the curse of slav- 
er}'-, prohibited the privileges of even learning to read 
that best of books — the Bible. 

On the 1st day of August the citizens of St. Louis 
collected together at Uhrig s Cave, to celebrate that day, 
in honer of the manumission of the state of Missouri. 
Flaming bills announced to the public that the following 
gentlemen would address the audience: — Rev. J. H. Magee, 
of Toronto, Rev. Mr. Young, of New York, and Rev. Mr. 
Brooks, of St. Louis. The hour for commencement having 
arrived, the spacious hall of Uhrig's Cave was filled with 
patriotic citizens, whose bodies, to a goodly number, were 
recently manacled with the cruel chains of slavery. The 
tongue that was wont to shout the battle cry of freedom, 
was hushed by the uplifted lash and the ever present slave 
pen. The heart of many a fair one, which in time of slav- 
ery was awakened by the tender passion — love, was frozen 
into solitude and discontent at the thought of that power, 
which could separate at any moment, two hearts which 
God had joined together in the indissoluble ties of eternal 
affection. The scene of abject bondage having been 
changed for one of partial liberty, I say partial, because 
that is not liberty which denies a part of the citizens of a 
countr}' rights which others are invited to enjo}'. The 
hearts of many were filled with jo3's before unknown. 
The mother was there with her babes, whom she now 
looked upon as being her own ; she had no fear that per- 
haps ere the morning's sun tinged the eastern sky, the 
6 



66 The Night of Affliction 



flowers of her 3'outli, the children ot her bosom, would be 
torn from her, to be exchanged for gold. Now the charter 
of liberty, which had been signed l»y a noble man — Abra- 
ham Lincoln — was ratified by Heaven, and the angels 
doubtless sang the triumphs of liberty in the never dying 
hallalujahs, such as Avent up to heaven when Babylon 
was fallen. There was the young wife, trusting confid- 
ingly in the manl}' person at her side, there being no dis- 
mal forebodings as to a probable separation, until God, 
who their beinoj oave would take them with himself to 
live. The lover was there with his loved one at his side, 
his heart filled with the gladdening prospects of an 
auspicious future, with no fears that before the nuptial tie 
could be celebrated they might be torn asunder b}^ the un- 
relenting hand of slavery's votary. 

During the speeches the appreciation of what was said 
w^as frequentl}^ evinced by the hearty outbursts of vocif- 
ferous cheers. Towards evening the vast assemblage dis- 
persed, feeling very grateful for having- been permitted to 
participate in the celebration of the day of glorious 
liberty. 

I returned home to remain a week before starting to the 
association in Springfield, Illinois. On arriving at Miles 
Station, I met my mother, who handed me a letter, con- 
taining the sad intelligence of the death of my brother, 
W. H. Mao-ee. He seemed to have died from the effects 
of a gun shot wound, which he received accidently, while 
crossing the plains. This sad intelligence brought new 
grief to my heart, which, added to that of leaving my 
affticted mother, made me feel exceedingly sorry. I went 
home and enjoyed its hospitalities with as much pleasure 
as I could under the circumstances, until the day came for 
me to start to Springfield, Illinois. On Thursday I took 



And Morning of Recovery. 67 



leave of mother, father, and the family, for Springfield, 
and thence to m^- church in Toronto. We had a most de- 
lightful session; means were concerted for the i»eneral 
good of Ziou, and for the uplifting of our race. A noble 
article was written by the Rev. Mr. Poindexter of Ohio, 
" On the State of the Country," in which he traced what 
would be the inevitable results of emancipation, without 
the privileges of exercising the rights of citizens in main- 
taining that blessed boon. At this meeting the funeral 
sermon of my brother was preached by Elders R. J. Robin- 
son and Samuel Livingstone. It was a solemn occasion — 
one which caused the shedding of many tears for one who 
in life was deeply interested in the aftairs of the church 
and ministerial elevation. He had spent a great deal of his 
time, after he had faithfull}^ served his minority at home, 
in the acquisition of knowledge. He went first to Racine, 
and spent some time there in a lightning rod factor^-, study- 
ing during intermissions that would occur. Finding it 
rather hard to work and stud}^ at the same time, he resolved 
to take what means he had accumulated, and respair to 
the celebrated seat of learning — Oberlin College. He re- 
mained there over two 3'ears, when necessity compelled his 
removal. 

He next wrote to the principal of Athens College in Ohio, 
stating his embarrassments, and his calling, and how he 
had striven to obtain a thorough education, that he might 
be able to go and preach the word with humble boldness, 
having studied to show himself a workman that needeth 
not to be ashamed. The president kindl}' gave him the 
privilege of attending his college free of charge, and he 
gladly accepted the proposal, remaining in that institution 
until he felt it his duty to prepare to do something else. 
He then removed to Cincinnati, and engaged himself to 



g§ The Night of Affliction 



work in an Italian marble factory. Finding that he could 
not o-et on the road to affluence fast enough, he resolved to 
go with a compan}^ then getting up to the gold mines of 
the far west, from whence the painful news of his death 
came to us. It is just to say that he was a most exem- 
plary and devoted christian. Below I will give a copy of a 
letter from him to his church at Piasa, Macoupin County, 
Illinois. 

Black Ha^vk, Aug. 25. 1863. 
Dear Brethren in the Lord : 

I now hasten to transmit to you a few lines, to let you 
know that through the mercies and blessings of God my 
health is good. I arrived here safely a few days ago. The 
reason that I did not write you while I was in the northern 
mines, was from lack of communication by mail. On my 
gold excursion I found both gold and quicksilver, but it is 
wholly impossible for any man to mine successfully in that 
region, unless he belongs to a large party and well guarded 
against the Indians. That country is a very ricli gold 
minino- countrv throuo^hout its whole extent — and there 
have been some very rich discoveries in the British posses- 
sions, at St. Mary's Lake, Moosehead Lake, and Carribro; 
at Deer Lodge, on Gold creek, they were making from 
sixty to sixty five dollars per day to the man. Bannock 
City is surrounded by rich mines. About the time we got 
ready to work, the Indians discovered us— they numljered 
about forty, and were Vvcll armed and drilled. There were 
only eight of us, therefore we were obliged to evacuate. 
They shot at me four times, one of the balls grazing my 
wrist. One man was shot through two coats, two shirts, 
and vest, the ball leaving a blister on his breast; another 
had the wast-bands of his pantaloons shot oflf'; and one 



And Morning of Recovery. 69 



man had the top of his head srrazed. On our way to Pike's 
Peak, we were captured by over three hundred Sioux — 
being a portion of the tribe that committed the outrages in 
Minnesota. They were bent upon killing us, but as God 
would have it, there happened to be three friendly Indians 
among them, who knew one of our party ; b}- their inter- 
cessions we were released. We were surrounded by them; 
they had their guns charged and primed. Had their been 
one careless one among them, to have burst a cap, or fired, 
then would have the brutal slaughter begun. There would 
not have been one left to have told the lamentable narra- 
tive. I then, brethern, thought of you all, and the sacred 
desk of God. I also remembered the old proverb, that 
" the way of the transgressor is hard." Brethern, I do beg- 
an interest in your prayers to God in my behalf. While 
traveling and wandering through this wild wilderness, and 
over the rocky cliff' I still felt that God was mine, and that 
I was his — I still felt his protecting care over me. 

Brethren, whenever I fall, whether it be on the plains or 
in the wild desert, I expect, through the assistance of God, 
by the grace already given, to make heaven my home, 
where the cracking of the Indian's riffle and his war whoop 
shall be heard no more, and where sin and death shall 
never enter; where the wear}' soul shall rest from its labor; 
where parting shall be no more, nor Sabbath ever end, nor 
the congregation ever break up. Oh, praise ye the Lord, 
praise 3'e him from whom all blessing ffow, for his mercies 
and his watchful protecting care over us. He has preserved 
us through dangers, both seen and unseen. 

Brethren, keep your heads above the waves, because the 
storm will soon be over, and then, if we have been faithful 
to the end, we shall moor our frail barks safely in the har- 
bor, and be housed in eternal heaven, to join with tlie angels 



70 The Night of Affliction 



in one perpetual strain of joy around the mediatorial seat 
of Christ. 

I now close, hoping, by the mercies of God, to hear from 
you soon. I remain, j^ours truly in the Lord, 

W. H. Magee. 

At the close of the associations each delegate sought his 
respective home. I took leave of 1113^ many friends on Mon- 
day evening, after the greater part of my friends living 
south of Springfield had taken leave of their friends, and 
gone by the morning train. I arrived in Chicago early 
Tuesday morning, and found my way to the hospitable re- 
sidence of the Rev. R. De Baptiste, in Fourth Avenue. 
Having partaken of the hospitalities of our esteemed bro- 
ther, we went to the various streets of interest with which 
the metropolis abounds. 

I met Elder Poindexter, of Columbus, Ohio, in the city; 
and finding that he and his wife were going to start home 
over the Michigan Southern railroad, I also concluded to 
start on the same evening and by the same road for Detroit 
The hour of starting having come, we went to the depot 
whence the Michigan Southern train stood, with steam 
ascending high, ready to start. The train was densely 
crowded, there not being room in the cars to obtain a single 
seat. This, however, was very soon remedied by the at- 
tachment of more cars. In a few minutes we were speed- 
ing away as fast as steam could carry us, leaving the beau- 
tiful city of Chicago among the things of the past. On 
the morning following I arrived at the city of Detroit, from 
thence I took the ferry boat " Windsor " for the town of 
Windsor, Canada West. Although an American born sub- 
ject, I must confess that I felt more at home the very first 
time my feet ever trode upon British soil than I ever felt 



And ]\roK\iNa of Hkcovery. 71 

ill America. This is from some unacountablc reason. I 
went ill the first phiee to Mr. J. W. Brown, a good old 
baptist frieud ; here I met jNIrs. Brooks, Avife of the Rev. W. 
F. Brooks of St. Louis; being old acquaintances, we passed 
the time very aoreeablv. I met Ekler Troy at home, by 
Avhom I was introduced to Ekler Chase, pastor of the Bap- 
tist Church in Detroit. I called on the Elder in question, 
received an appointment to preach in his church on Sab- 
bath at three o'clock, p. m. I was very much pleased Avith 
his church and congregation, it being furnished with a good 
organ, at Avhich a colored lady presided, showing a perfect 
acquaintance with the excellent art of church music. In 
the evening I Avas invited to preach in the spacious Baptist 
Cliurch of Windsor. I was welcomed by a fine apprecia- 
tive audience ; was very much pleased to see the progress 
that MANY of our people were making in Windsor towards 
aflluance. Some, who, having escaped from slavery with- 
out a dollar, after paying their Ava}^ to Canada, have fine 
brick houses, stores, etc. Others have handsome frame 
buildino-s. Let the traducer of the colored man, in Avhose 
mouth the vile lie of negro incapacity rests, look at what 
has been done in Windsor and elsewhere, after spending 
the strength of his years in unrequited toil. 

I next turned my steps homcAvards to my OAvn charge in 
Toronto. Arriving there about the last of August, I Avas 
met with the sad news that Mrs. HoUins, the lady with 
whom I boarded, had been burned out, and that all my 
library had shared the same fiite, and had perished in the 
fire. 



72 The Night of Affliction 



CHAPTER IX. 

LIFE IN TOR >NTO. 

Sad Intelligence— Symyathy — Colored Citizens — Funerel Sermon 
of President Lincoln— The Sermon— Toronto Grammer School 
— A Prize for Proficiency in Latin — Progress— Reminiscence 
— Chiirclies and Ministers— A Gospel-fortified Citj' — Delight- 
ing in the House of God — A glorious Hope—The Fruition of 
Heaven— A Description— Affliction of Life— The Bond Street 
Baptist Church— T. F. Caldicott, D. D.— Richmond Street 
Wesleyan Church— Rev. Wm. Stepenson— Rev. Mr. Pollard— 
The Elm Street Wesleyan Church— Mr. John Potts— Knox 
Church— The Evangelical Union Church— Rev. Mr. Melville 
—The Sayer Street B. M. E. Church— Rev. Peter Anderson— 
The Queen Street Baptist Church— Rev. J. H. Magee. 

On the 14th day of April, the sad intelligence of the 
assassination of the chief magistrate of the United States — 
the venerated Abraham Lincoln — was borne to the quiet 
city of Toronto. The city was a vast house of mourning. 
Business on the day of his funeral was nearly all sus- 
pended. 

Most of the churches evinced their sj^mpathy by opening 
their doors on the day of his funeral, when vast crowds of 
citizens went to the different churches to hear his funeral 
preached by their respective pastors. The colored citizens 
of Toronto showed their veneration for our much lamented 
friend and benefactor, by calling a meeting of condolence, 
to meet in the Queen Street Baptist Chapel, where, in the 
presence of a crowded house, I had the mounful duty to 
perform of preaching the funeral sermon of our great bene- 
factor, whose name will be ever dear to generations yet 
unborn. 

I will give a general outline of the subject used on that 
occasion : " Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, 



And I\I()kning of Recovery. 73 



for the ea I of that man is peace." Psalms xxxvii. 37 
The obicct of our comi'io; to2:ether is one of the most solemn 
in its nature that it has been our painful duty to witness. 
It is to show the last tribute of respect to one of the most 
illustrious men the world ever knew. The means by which 
he came to an untimely end is the most tragical and inhu- 
man that was ever perpetrated in a civilized world. It is 
our purpose to recount in a ver}- brief manner the life and 
death of the noble and heroic statesman, Abraham Lincoln, 
the father of the liberty of four million souls. We shall 
consider the text as descriptive of the character of the 
lamented late President of the United States. We shall 
first notice a character described "a perfect man.-' This 
eminent man was born in Hardin Count^^, Kentucky, on 
the 12th of February 1809. His father and mother were 
consistant members of the Baptist Church. 

I. The character decribed, " A perfect man," we can 
sa}' with the uttermost confidence of the late President. 
'' ^lark the perfect man and behold the upright, for the end 
of that man is peace." God is perfect in all his attributes. 
He has a family in heaven, whom he has perfected in 
Christ. His family on earth are in a state of progression, 
destined to perfection in Christ, the Saviour of the world. 
"And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all 
principality and power." The Lord has opened a perfect 
road to eternal rest, and commanded man to Avalk iji that 
road. It is evident that man must have attained to a cer- 
tain stage of that principle in which the way was laid out 
before he could be accepted fts a traveler in the king's 
highway. Having entered tliis glorious wa}", we are com- 
manded to WALK in it. " Walk before me and be thou per- 
fect," saith God. The whole object of the gospel is to 
save a lost world. Nothing could have induced the son 



74 The Night of Affliction 

of God to robe himself in humanity, to sojourn in the 
world, and finally die upon the cross, but that the world 
through him might be perfected. This Christ, Avhom the 
apostles preached, warning every man, and teaching very 
man in all wisdom, that they might present every man 
PERFECT in Christ Jesus. " W hereunto I also labor, striv- 
ing according to his w^orkings, which worketh in me 
mightil3^" This doctrine is further evident from a con- 
sideration of what is absolutely necessaiy before man can 
be a fit subject for the kingdom of heaven, viz. regenera- 
tion, or being born again. This operation is like unto a 
NEW creation. The old man and his deeds of imperfec- 
tion have been exchanged for the new man — Christ Jesus. 
" If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things 
are passed away, behold, all things are become new." 

Again it is our privilege to have a perfect "love." We 
may have a perfect hope, which hope is founded on a per- 
fect foundation. This perfect hope is in opposition to all 
that is false. Perfect love is in opposition to dissimula- 
tion. We may have perfect sentiments of right principles, 
for which the late President was pre-eminently noted, and 
to which every lover of justice, equality, and liberty will 
say of the subject of this discourse. "Mark the perfect 
man" — a man whom angels might admire, as in the steady 
course of duty he unswervingly ran. And when, as if 
with the spirit of inspiration, he took his pen to write the 
noble edict of emancipation, guided b^^ the angel of justice, 
cheered on by the angel of mercy, encouraged by the God 
of heaven, animated by the groans of four millions of 
brethren, whose chained hands were raised imploringly to 
heaven, crying: " How long, O Lord, how long shall we re- 
main in these bonds;" the news, methinks, was re-echoed 
from the heavenly world, as the word forever free was 



And Morning of Recoveky, 75 



ratified by the angel of justice, who, upon the wings of 
time, flew to glory, exclaiming: "Babylon is fallen!" 
Hear! the clanking chains of millions of hitherto bond- 
men falling down to oblivion. See! the tyrant slavery, 
])Ound by libertv, trcmblino- down to hell! Listen! hear all 
the retinue of heaven shouting, hallelujah, salvation, and 
glory, and honor, and power unto our God. Why? For 
true and righteous are his judgments. True and right- 
eous judgments. Suddenly the mighty tyrant slavery 
was judged by the righteous and true God. The sword of 
justice was unsheathed in righteousness against that 
which had drunk the blood of hundreds of bleeding vic- 
tims. Angels might have pointed with admiration to him 
whom God made an instrument' in liberating the poor slave, 
saying: " Behold a perfect man." The hearts of thousands 
are filled with undving veneration for the hero of liberty. 
His name will be ever dear to them who now live, and to 
2-eneratious yet unborn. The slave mother, in time of deep 
distress on account of the separation of herself and children, 
has devoutly prayed that God would raise up a Moses to 
lead them from the house of bondage to the Canaan of 
liberty. Thousands died ^vithout the sight, but not with- 
out the faith, for they had learned that sweet promise 
respecting their deliverance: — '' Ethiopia shall soon stretch 
out her hands unto God." 

Look at the present state of afl'airs; many, whose heads 
were raised up to the position of freemen, through the 
instrumentality of our Moses, now weep because he who 
was their deliverer is no more. We, who are here in 
Canada, the home of the free, feel the effects of the fall 
of the hero of liberty, and are here assembled to-day to 
show our respect for one who was foremost in securing to 
us the chart of libert}'. 



76 The Night of Affliction 



Dear friends, the tears which are shed so freely will not 
be forgotten; the^' Avill go up to heaven as a memorial of 
true regard for the martyr of liberty. We shall quit this 
part of the division with hearts responding " Behold, a per- 
fect man." 

11. The end poktraid " is peace." The end of all per- 
fection is peace. This is the paramount object of the death 
of Christ, to secure peace. This is the great end of the 
believer's expectation, the battle having been fought, the 
victory won, heaven obtained, and all their works crowned 
with the diadem of peace. When Christ was about to 
leave the world, on his triumphant march, he breathed this 
heaven born principle upon his diciples, "Peace I leave 
with you, my peace I give unto you."' 

Peace is in opposition to war. The desireableness of 
peace may at once be seen by considering the calamitous 
effects of war. The imagination has but to travel in the 
train of war and bloodshed to depict in living characters 
its terrible effects. Here a wounded soldier, beneath the 
tread of his comrades, suffering the most excruciating pain. 
There, at the sound of every discliarged cannon, are many 
falling, mortally wounded. Look at the homes of the fallen, 
the news of the death of a son, a husband, having arrived, 
see the expression of deep grief by the wife, as she reads 
the missive containing the sad ncAvs of a husband slain. 
This grief is often increased, when the weeping wife looks 
upon her family of helpless children. Follow the same 
train of thought to the place where sits a weeping mother. 
She weeps because the news of the death of a son has ar- 
rived. Contrast this scene, with a country whose domains 
have not been darkened by the smoke of battle. Why are 
the inhabitants so happy? Tliere is the wife and mother in 
whose eyes beam the radiance of happiness. There is no 



And IVIoiiNixG of Recovery. 77 



fear, lest the arriving post should liring the tidings of the 
death of a loved one, for the banner of peace floats in the 
breeze, and every heart rejoices in the sun light of true 
happiness. 

There is another war, followed by another peace, which 
is the peace referred to in the text. The Chris- 
tian is engaged in a warefare. His opponents are the 
world, the flesh, and the devil. Let us follow the Christain 
warrior to the conflict, see him unsheath his sword against 
the enein}' of his soul, and march with quickened steps 
against the world. The world has been placed in the pre- 
sence of the Christian in its most attractive garb, with the 
insinuating address of the arch find, " all these things will 
I give unto you if thou wilt worship me." Faith nerves 
the hand which holds the sword with strength, and bids 
him take a look through the telescope called faith, and see 
to the end of the present material world. Christian, what 
do vou see? '' I see the world, and the fashion of the world, 
vea all the hauQ-thv, and all that doeth wickedlv in burning 
flames." Look again ; what do you now see? "I see the 
old enemy also writhering amid the general burning." 
Thus by faith he overcomes. Through the same medium 
he looks be^'ond the present world, and sees with rapture 
mansions prepared for faithful warriors. Crowns of glory 
dazzle his dust-bedimmed eyes. Sweet music from the choir 
in glorv awakens his heart to joys supreme. This is a 
foretaste of heaven — a shower of peace. The departed 
statesman had his conflicts ere he entered into his rest. 
His o})ponents, against whom lie had to contend, were of 
three-fold nature. First, he ha.l to contend with phkjudick. 
The first battle in this line l)egan with his first election to 
the olfice of Chief 3Iagistrate of the United States. It 
was successfullv fouuiit on the "Chica^'e Platform," the 



78 The Night of Affliction 



principles hy which he was ever afterward governed. The 
enunciation of his non-extensive slavery principle so in- 
censed the pro-slavery part}', that they agreed among tlicni- 
selves to make war upon the champion of liherty, by 
revolting against the government over which lie presided. 
The honerable chief called his constituents to sustain the 
flag which they had called him to represent, nor did he call 
in vain, for legions responded to their country's call. 

Four years the contest waxed hotter and hotter; towards 
the close of the second year a noble band of colored braves 
offered their lives to be sacrificed, if necessary, upon the 
altar of the country — I can't say their country on account 
of what followed their patriotic offer. They recieved a 
reply to the effect that their services were not then needed. 
Prejudice then assumed a more terrible shape than ever; 
the hue and cry was raised on every side : — " This is the 
AVHiTE man's war." The Tresident was doubtless o-rieved 
at this insult to his friends, whom he was trying in every 
way, to lift to the condition of freemen. Here the contest 
with prejudice seemed to falter, the latter seemingly having 
gained the victory. The godly Magistrate, being instructed, 
doubtless by the Almighty, wrote the numerable emancipa- 
tion proclamation, September 22nd, 18G2, to go into effect 
on the 1st of January, IS'oS, if the rebellious states would 
not ampl}' with the demands of the government. Ulie 
eventful new ^^ear's day came, frought with over four mil- 
lion new years gifts — gifts of liberty to the oppressed. 
Who can tell the number of prayers of thanksgiving that 
went up to God on that glorious da}^ — the natal day of 
millions. Heaven doubtless runo- anew with tlie shouts of 
its happy inhabitants! The banners of Christ shone with 
new lustre! The Lord God had come "to preacli good 
tidings unto the meek, he hath come to bind up tlie broken- 



And Morning op Eecovery. 79 

hearted, to proclaim libert}' to the captives and the open- 
ing of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the 
acceptal)le year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of 
our God, to comfort all that mourn." 

At len!>-th the monster prejudice was made to succumb. 
Our colored men were called into the rao'ins: conflict. Not 
one of them faltered, but they fought courageousl}^ for 
their bleeding country. God had seen the tears of his peo- 
ple, and come to deliver them, and to show that the power 
was in His hands. He made the sufferers instrument in 
effectino- their own deliverance. 

Success now crowned the union arms, and the ter- 
rible conflict was placed on the road to a successful 
issue. Again he was called to face opposition among 
his constituents, man}^ of whom, not being able to 
see the ultimatum of the course he was pursuing, there- 
fore they feared the consequence might prove detrimental 
to the enjoyment of the wished for peace. Lastly, he had 
to fight with the monster slaver}^ With one sharp stroke 
of the sword of justice, slavery was wounded to the death. 
Its grave was dug by " liberty," and covered so deepl}' by 
'civil rights,'' that it can never be resurrected until the 
j udgement of the great day, when it shall be raised by the 
authorit}^ of the great Judge, to hear its final doom, and to 
be cast into the lake of fire with its father — the devil. 
The last enemy he had to meet was death, at the hands of 
a cowardly assassin. He is dead, but 3'et speaketh. His 
work is following him in a continuous procession, bearing 
aloft the banner of freedom, upon the folds of which is in- 
scribed: — "Mark the perfect man and behold the upright, 
for the end of tliat man is peace." 

" Servant of God, well done, 
Rest from th}' loved emplo}^. 



80 The Night of Affliction 



The battle foiigiit. the victory won, 
Enter tlie Musters joy." 

" The voice at midnight came, 

He started up to hear, 
A mortal arrow pierced his frame, 

He fell, but felt no fear. 

" Tranquil amid alarms; 

It found him on the field, 
A veteran, slumbering on his arms, 

Beneath his red-cross shield. 

"The pains of death are past. 

Labor and sorrow cease, 
And life's warfare closed at last. 

His soul is found in peace. 

" Soldier of Christ, well done. 

Praise be thy new employ. 
And, while eternal ages run, 

Rest in thy Saviour's joy." 

Near the first of September I applied to the Rev. Dr. 
Wieksoii, LL. D., for admission to the Toronto Grammar 
School. I w^as kindly received by the rector, whose name I 
have mentioned. On entering the junior division, I found 
that the Grammar School was adapted to. the wants of 
all desiring to secure a liberal education, preparatoiy to 
entering the universit}^ I am happ}^ to sa}-, that, during 
my stay (two years) in the Grammar School, my pro- 
gress in the various branches was as good as I expected, 
considering the amount of labor I had to perfoi'm in the 
pastorate. At the sessional examination in December, I 
was awarded a prize for proficiency in Latin. I began in 
the first class, and continued until I reached the tliird class 
in classics. 

The memory of the Toronto Grammer School, with its 
efficient corps of teachers, will ever be pleasant. It shall 



And rvl()ii\is(; of Kkcovkky. 81 



be to mo as one of the bright beacons, that has shone upon 
my intellectual pathway with peculiar brightness. When 
I think of its great end and aim my heart swells with 
gratitude to God, who so beneMcently bestowed upon the 
inhabitants of Canada the great blessing of the key 
of knowledge. I also bless God that these aA'enues of 
learning are just as aceessable to the black as to the 
white man, provided he has the means to sustain hi in 
self in the acquirement of that much desired boon — 
learning. Had I the means I should stay here; but alas, 
from the meagerness of my resources I am compelled to go 
where I can do better. Trusting that God will aid me, I 
shall start in search of an opportunity of gaining the great 
desire of my heart — a thorough training in theology, thMt 
best of siences. With a deep feeling of regret I shall soon 
bid adieu to the Toronto Grammar School and the teachers 
whom I greatly respect. 

Nothing inspires my heart with a greater joy than to 
live in a city noted for its many and elegant places of wor- 
ship. Toronto is certainly the best gospel-fortified city 1 
ever saw. Having no service in our chapel in the evening, 
I have an opportunity of attending divine service at any 
churcii I may choose. I need scarely add, that, to attend 
church forms my chief delight; I can sing, without the 
least fear of violatinof the truth — 



'•I love thy kingdom. Lord, 

The house of thine abode, 
The church our blest Redeemer saved 

With his own precious blood.'' 

In passing the places of worship on my way to a parti- 
cular church, ni}^ soul has been thrilled with great deligiit 
as I w^ould hear the deep j^eals of the organ, with the 
melody of many voices, hymning high their Maker's praise. 



82 The Night of Affliction 

I have thought if it bo so delightful to be in the congrega- 
tion of earthly worshippers, what will it be in the congre- 
gation of the redeemed millions, whose voices is as the 
sound of man}^ waters If it be so delightful to sit and 
listen to the melting notes of the gospel from God's em- 
bassadors, what will it be to sit in the presence of God the 
Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, to listen 
forever to the Son of God, telling of the wonders of his 
cross. If the association of brethren be so pleasant and 
agreeable, how shall we express the jo}' of our heart, when 
we shall sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in the 
kingdom of heaven. If earthly temples are so delightful 
to the eye, rejoicing the heart, what will be the beauty 
of the temple of the living God, which has no need of the 
light of the sun, nor of the moon, nor of the stars, for the 
glor}^ of God is the light to lighten it, and the lamb is the 
light thereof. O, may I be there, that sight to see, that 
glory to share, where no sin shall ever enter, neither the 
fear of the consequences of sin, for there shall be no more 
death, neither crying, nor sorrow, neither shall there be 
any more pain, for the former things are passed away. 
What a blessed thought! What a glorious hope! I often 
shed tears here, for this is a vale of tears, but the time is 
not very fiir distant when I shall shed no more tears. God 
will call me into mansions prepared b}' the voice of the 
Archangel, and his mighty trump. I shall rise by virtue 
of the resurrection of Christ, my Saviour, and then these 
mortal tear-bedewed eyes shall weep no more, for God shall 
wipe away all tears from my eves. " Oh, for love like this 
let rocks and hills their lasting silence break." Let every 
thing that has breath praise God; let all the people praise 
Him. 

I have been called to witness death in the families of 



And Morning of Recoveky. 83 

friends, and in the family of which I am' a member. I 
also know that death is sown in ni}' mortal bod}', that it is 
desolvino- every day, under the intluence of disease, but I 
look just beyond the narrow stream of death, and I read 
in characters divine, spoken by the moutli of God: — 
" There shall be no more death." I have a lasting com- 
fort given me, even on this side the river — the victory'' of 
faith in Christ over the monster's stino-. Christ has 
given me a sword made of the same material of that which 
he gave to all the saints who have fouiiht with the mons- 
ter death, and conquered when they fell. Let us follow 
one whom we shall notice in the combat; there he lies 
U[)on his bed — see him shiver, and ever and anon start as 
ii' suddenh' pierced; he views instinctively the rapid ap- 
pioach of the king of terror, fledged with the instruments 
of death. He lays his unrelenting grasp u[)onthe vitals of 
the struggling Christian. He awakes to the realit}^ of the 
contest and finds that he is in mortal combat with the 
great destroyer. He feels that of himself he is not able to 
conquer, therefore he looks to Jesus, faith points to the 
sword which Christ gave to him. The dying saint with 
superhuman strength grasps his sword, and, with one 
sharp stroke, severs the sting of death. See his counte- 
nance beam with heavenly fervor; what is the matter now, 
hear him shout as he falls, " O, death, where is thy sting.' ^ 
He folds his arms in death, wdiich has lost its sting, and 
svviftl}' speeds to glory, shouting as he flies, victory ! vic- 
tor}"! victory ! through my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 
See him enter heaven, and hear him shouting, glory! 
glory! "'lory! I am safe! safe! safe! I have fought the 
last fight ! conquored the last enemy. Faith, hope, and 
sighing are exchanged for the fruition of heaven. Glory 
to God in the highest! 



84 The Night of Affliction 



I hope to claim the soit of- victory which I have just 
described. Sorrow is almost the coustJiut companion of 
mortals here below. Many can take up the cry of the 
Psalmist: — "How Ions: shall I take council in m\' soul, 
having sorrow in ni}^ heart dail^'."' I can say that the cry 
of that man after God's own heart, has been the inhabitant 
of my soul at times. Sorrow is the opposite of jo}'. It 
may be illustrated in many ways. Suppose it is night, 
there is not a star to pale the sable canopy. A soul is 
lost in the dark, dense forest, his ears are saluted with the 
sound of wild and ferocious beasts. The owl sends forth 
his low, death-like moan; to deepen the gloom, a storm 
may gather, deepening clouds may start athwarth the 
skies, the deep-toned thunder ma}^ be heard, the forked 
lightning seems to split the clouds in twain, the rain begins 
to fall as though another flood were coming to drown the 
earth. A ship may be in a storm, the sails are riven by 
the howling tempest, the angry waves eveiy moment 
threaten the terrified mariners with a w^ater3^ grave; the 
cracking timbers are heard amid the wailing of the storm. 
The deafening peals of thunder appalls all hearts as if the 
judgment had come. 

These are faint illustrations of what sorrow is. Sorrow 
may be divided into various classes. There is godly sorrow 
for sin; the sorrow of the world, which worketh deatli; 
the sorrow of in-dwelling sin ; the sorrow of desertion; 
the sorrow of conflicts with satan ; sorrow from wounds 
received in the house of our friends. Many of these are 
the heritage of Christians on earth. Mau}^ of these I have 
felt, which, like a dagger have pierced my heart; but I 
look forward to that period when sorrow shall be a thing 
quite unknown — " there shall be neither sorrow nor 
crying." 



And Morning of Kkcoveky. 85 



Pain is another evil to wiiich tlesli is lieir. I hnve lial 
in_y full ])ortion of this i)art of the dowry of the human 
family. Often I have lain down to try to rest my weaiy, 
aching limbs, but no icst could I find. Pain, in its ra[)id 
flight, winged sleep from my e^'es. The bone of m^' liml), 
which is necrosed, often pained me for hours, until sleep, 
nature's sweet restorer, forced itself upon my eye-lids, to 
the great relief of my body. I thank God that I can now 
rest both day and night, except it is when I have taken 
cold in the limb. It is sweet to look in God's book, and 
read the soothing sentence: — -'Neither shall there be any 
more pain." 

I started to write about churches and ministers to which 
I shall next direct my pen. There is the Bond Street 
15a[)tist Church, under the efficient pastoral care of the 
Rev. T. F. Caldicott, D. D. This edifice is one of tlie 
most beautifullv finished buildini'S of the kind in the citv. 
I have had much pleasure in attending this church, not 
onl}' on account of its beautiful finish, good music, and 
laroe cono'reuation, but because I could understand the 
word of God, as it was explained so lucidly and plainly 
as to bring the subject within the comprehension of all. 
I have often been made to rejoice with that deep and last 
ing joy, while listening to the story of the cross, the 
triumphs of the death of our Saviour, and the promise of 
his second comins:. I was o-reatlv impressed a few Sun- 
dav's ago, as the Doctor spoke concerning the day of 
judgment, of the joy that believers would then recieve, 
and of the unmitioated terror of the wicked. 

I have visited the Richmond Street Wesleyan Church 
with much satisfaction. The Rev. Wm. Stephenson ad- 
ministers from the sacred desk, alternately with Rev. ^Ir. 
l*ollard. The church is ver}' spacious, the congregation 



86 The Night of Affliction 



very good. I have been transported to the highest of all 
tliat is sublime while listening to the words of Mr. Slepli- 
enson, who poured forth a i)rofiision of eloquence like 
an ever flowing spring. 

I have also visited the Elm Street Wesley an Method! t 
Church, and heard the Rev. Mr. Potts, whose mind is ;i 
store-house of rich treasures of the truth of God. 
The chapel is of fine finish, being furnished with a splen- 
did organ, accompanied by a choir of unsurpassed excel- 
lence. 

Knox Church, being one of the best Presb3^terian 
Churches in the cit}', has an excellent congregation. I 
attended this church on the evening of the first Sunda}- in 
June. I was much pleased to hear Prof. Jones (a gentle- 
man of color) lead in congregational singing. 

The Evangelical Union Church, situated in Albert Street, 
under the pastorate of the Rev. Mr. Melville, is a church 
of the milder form of Presb3'terianism. The pastor is a 
man of much abilitv. I heard him on the testimonv to 
the Messiahship with great interest. 

The Sayer Street B. M. E. Church (colored) is under the 
pastoral care of Rev. Peter R. Anderson. This church is 
well attended by both Methodist and Baptist brethren. 

Last but not least is the Queen Street Baptist Church, 
over which I preside; it is certainly the best colored church 
in the cit3\ It will seat comfortably four hundred people, 
was finished in 1841 by Elder Christian and others, many 
of whom are fallen asleep. I can say with pleasure that I 
never preached with more profit and pleasure in any 
church than in Queen Street Churcli. I have never been 
identilied with a better set of brethern, all of whom seem 
to try to do tiie best they can to promote the cause of 
Christ. All the ofllcers are men of abilit^^ who occupy 



And MoiiNiNG of Recovery. 87 

their positions witli honor to themselves and to the church, 
I could particularize many private donations which I have 
received from time to time, amonix them stand brother 
James Johnson, whose donations I have largiy sliared, and 
many others whose names I would gladly mention did s[)ace 
permit. I have their names treasured in memory's 1)(>ok, 
in which I shall continue to read them with pleasure till 
it is sealed in death. There are man}^ converts connected 
with this church, whom God did by his Spirit call to re- 
pentance under my administration. I can point to them 
with pleasure and sa^-, behold the monuments of God's 
merc3\ 

LETTER FROM TORONTO, C. W. 

March 21st 1867. 

Mr. Editor : — I hail with pleasure an opportunity to 
write a descriptive letter of the times, in this part of the 
Kingdom of Canada. 

I must in the first place say something about how " The 
People's Journal" is received here. Mr. A. Butler, a gen- 
tleman of color, has one of the most business-like news 
depots in this city ; and it is from him that the " Journal " 
is obtained. I hope. Sir, that the "Journal" may meet 
with a still wider circulation, both in Canada, and in the 
United States. Geographically, we are, by many of the 
people of the states, considered to be a little this side of 
the North Pole, and consequently designate this i)art of 
Canada, " The land of ice and snow." I disclaim every 
thing of the sort, though at present the descending snow 
flakes indicate that stern winter is very reluctant to give 
way to "the time of the singing of birds." The past win- 
ter has been one of great interest to the people in Toronto. 
It might perhaps be interesting to your readers, to hear 



88 The Night of ArFLicnoN 



something about the institutions of learning, churches, etc. 
It is ni}-^ privilege in common with others, to attend "the 
Toronto Grammnr School," under the able rectorship of 
Rev. Arthur Wickson, LL. D. who is not only the principal 
of the school, but also teacher of Classics, Ancient History, 
and Antiquities. Of these springs of classic lore, we are 
daily invited to drink by our kind and honorable preceptor. 
Messrs. A. McMurchy and R. Scott are Mathematical and 
English JNIasters, both of whom are very excellent teachers. 
Several of the pupils attending the Grammar School are 
preparing for the Universit}' of Toronto. 

The churches which I shall notice, are in a ver}^ pros- 
perous state, some of which are enjoying continuous reviv- 
als. The Bond Street Baptist church, under the pastorate 
of Rev. T. F. Caldicott, D. D. is in the midst of a precious 
revival of religion, man^' have professed a hope in Christ, 
and scores are inquiring the Avay to be saved. I witnessed 
a very interesting baptismal scene, such as the church 
has often been favored with during the past three months, 
last Sunday evening. Five happy converts joyfully put on 
Christ b}^ baptism. The Queen Street Baptist Church, the 
one over wdiich I preside, is doing very well. The spirit 
of the Lord is often manifested in our solemn assemblies. 
Recently the sisters of the church gave a grand tea meet- 
ing on behalf of the church. Rev. Dr. Wickson and Prin- 
cipal Willis favored us with their presence ; the former 
gave us a very thrilling speech, concerning the capabilities 
of colored men to learn any thing that any bod}- else can 
learn. He also spoke of the position which the colored 
people now occupy as freedmen, exhorting us to diligeiK e 
and perseverence, which, ere long, will secure for us the 
blessings of which we have so long been deprived. Our 
Sabbath School ts attended by both youth and adults; it is 



And ^Morning of Rlcovery. 89 

doing well. Mr. R. P. Tlioiiias is the superintendent ; his 
labors both as a teacher and superintendent are indifatig- 
able. 

The Richmond Street Colored Weslyan Church is in a 
very properous condition, judging from the attendance, 
which is very good. Mr. Wm. Abbott and others preach 
for that ffrowinsf and interestino- church. 

The Sayer Street B. M. E. Church under the pastorate 
of Mr. Peter Anderson seems to be in a healthy spiritual 
condition. I was present last evening at a tea meeting for 
the benefit of the church. They will probably realize a 
ver}" good sum of money from it. 

Mr. Editor, I must close my letter for I fear I have al- 
ready occupied too much space. In my next I will inform 
3"0u of the ocular interests of the city. 

Elder J. H. Magee. 

Toronto, C. W. April 8th, 1867. 

Dear Brethren: — I have to regard the mercy of God to 
me in bestowing blessings which have been the subject of 
my prayers for many years, viz., the restoration of my 
health, and the privilege of attending school. 

After twelve long, weary years of suffering under the 
dark cloud of affliction, God has delivered me from suffer- 
ing worse than death, under that terrible disease, necrosis, 
or death of the bone, which sapped the strength of twelve 
years of my life's morning. The providence of God, I be- 
lieve, directed me to Toronto, one of the most healthy lo- 
calities in Canada; and to a doc-tor whose skill, under God, 
has effectually eradicated the disease. 

I have often prayed for an opportunity to stud}' the Greek 
and Latin classics, and at length God in his mercy has 
placed me where I can enjoy the great privilege in the 
8 



90 The Night op Affliction 



Toronto Grammar School, under the able rectorship of Eev. 
Arthur Wickson, LL. D., teacher of classics, ancient his- 
tor3', and antiquities. Messrs. A. jNIcMurchy and R. Scott 
are mathematical and English masters, both of whom are 
very excellent teachers. This is a preparatory school, in 
which students are taught the Greek and Latin classics, 
preparatory to entering the university at Toronto, one of 
the best institutions of learnino- on the American conti- 
nent. It is my intention, if the Lord wills, to finish my 
studies at the university of Toronto. 

The Queen Street Baptist Church, of which I have charge, 
is doing very well; the Lord often manifests the presence 
of the Spirit in our midst. There are two candidates wait- 
ing the ordinance of baptism. Peace and brotherly love 
attend us in all our efforts. We are as a unit, in trying to 
advance the cause of Christ. The Bond Street Baptist 
Church, under the pastorate of Rev. T. F. Caldicott, is en- 
joying a continuous revival of religion. I witnessed the 
baptism of five happy converts, into the fellowship of 
that church, a few Sundays ago. I learn that more are 
awaiting baptism. A new interest has just commenced in 
the north part of the city, viz., the Alexander Street Bap- 
tist Church. Thus the true banner is being unfurled in 
Canada as well as in the United States. May it continue 
to float upon the " flag staff" of the old ship of Zion, until 
she shall have carried the glad idings to every land in 
every tongue. 

J. H. Magee. 



And Morning op Recovery. 91 



CHAPTER X. 

THE OLD WORLD. 

My Last Visit to My Home in Illinois — Toronto Grammar School 
Theology — Thoughts of Faith About Spurgeon— Sword and 
Trowel — Pastor's College— Trunk packed for London — Quebec 
— Steamer Hibernian— Off for England— Passengers — Inci- 
dents on the Voyage — First Sunda}^ at Sea — Storms — White 
Clifls of Wales — Land Ahead—Landed in Liverpool- Thoughts 
About England and English People— Curiosity of English Peo- 
ple — A Colored Face— C. H. Spurgeon and My First Inter- 
view—Mr. Spurgeon's College and Students— Rev. Mr. Brock 
—In College— Our Course of Study — English Habits— The 
Metropolitan Tabernacle— The Prince of Preachers— Sabbath 
School— Catechumen Class— Mrs. Bartlett's Class— College Tea 
Meeting— Mr. Spurgeon's Mode of Conducting Religious Ser- 
vice—Contributions of the Congregation—An Outline of the 
Lord's Work Done by the Pastor's College— President's Let- 
ter—Rev. Newman Hall— Painful Sickness— Visited by Scores 
of Kind Friends During My Sickness— Mr. Spurgeon's Birth- 
day Anniversary. 

My last visit at my home seemed to have been marked 
with an unaccountable sadness — It was unaccountable at 
that time, for it was then unknown to me, that, when I 
returned again, it should be to see the last of my dear 
mother. Every thing about home seemed to wear a look 
of sadness, and at times my own feelings were oversha- 
dowed by a sadness for which I could give no cause. I 
remember the last breakfast I ate with my mother the 
morning before I started to Canada. It seemed that every 
bite of victuals would choke me. We hurried through the 
morning meal, and my trunk w^as placed in the wagon, and 
my father, and mother, and all the family went to see me 
off. The cars are coming — I took leave of all my father's 
family, but my leave-taking of all the rest of the family did 
not affect me until I bid my mother " good-by." She 



92 The Night op Affliction 



was overcome with emotion, and her tears flowed freely. 
The sight of those tears I shall never forget I can see 
her now as she stood on the plat-form of the railroad depot, 
watching the departing train. 

That was a sad journey in the month of October, 1866. 
When I reached my home in Toronto, Canada, I immedi- 
ately resumed my studies in the Toronto Grammer School. 
Having made considerable progress in some of the higher 
branches, I became exceedingly anxious to enter some 
theological school, where I might prepare m^'self more 
efficiently for the work which God had called me to do — 
that of preaching the gospel. When I first began to preach, 
I had an unsatisf3'ing desire to see Spurgeon, the great 
London Baptist Minister. And I have often sat down at 
home with my dear mother, and read portions from 8})ur- 
geon's sermons, and said, "Mother, I do wish I could see 
and hear Mr. Spurgeon." My mother was always hopeful, 
and never discouraged her children in any thing that was 
right and commendable. She would say, " Henry, the 
Lord may open a way for you to go to England after a 
while." At length a pamphlet fell into my hands, pub- 
lished by C. H. Spurgeon of London, England, called the 
"Sword and Trowel. '' 

From this little book I learned that Spurgeon was the 
president of an institution called the " Pastor's College," 
for training 3'Oung preachers for the responsible work of 
more efficiently preaching the gospel. This set me all 
aglow with all my former hopes and prayers that I might 
be able to see Spurgeon, and sit at his feet and learn from 
him the way to preach in such a manner as to lead souls 
to Christ. I told my friend John C. Graves, who was then 
studying in one of the Toronto institutions of learning. 1 
wrote to Mr. Spurgeon, and received a reply, that tliev 



And Morning of Recovery. OTi 



then had more students and applications than the}' knew 
what to do with. In the meantime my friend Graves 
thought he would try the providence of God, and go across 
the great waters — like Abraham, trusting in God. He went, 
and succeeded in getting a place in the college. This gave 
me encouragement to go and do likewise. It was but a 
short work for me to make readv, for I was determined to 
go. I made known ni}' wishes to the church, who very re- 
luctantly gave their consent for me to go. The good sis- 
ters of the church looked after my wardrobe, and I was 
very soon ready with my trunk packed for London, Eng- 
land. On the 18th of 3Iay, 1S67, I bought my ticket for 
Liverpool, England, via Montreal line of steamers. I em- 
barked at Quebec in the noble steamer '• Hibernian." Soon 
after I boarded the steamer, and arranged my •' traps" and 
baggage, I heard the boom of a cannon. I inquired what 
that meant. Thereplvwas: "That means we are olf for 
England." Oh, how those words re-echoed through my mind 
— " off for England," how the memor}' of loved ones rushed 
across my mind, mother, father, brother, sister. The kind 
wishes of my church, and their "God bless you," was still 
ringing in my ears. " Off' for England; " I thought of the 
wide waters of three thousand miles in length, ere I should 
see land, after we were out of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 
The passengers on board were ver}^ friendl}', and each one 
tried to be as agreeable as possible to while away the 
tedium of the journey. Our captain was a perfect gentle- 
man and a Christian, always polite, always ready to add to 
the comfort and well-being of his passengers. Friday 
passed in silence almost, for all seemed more or less sad. 
Saturday came, and with it we found ourselves calmly set- 
tled down to the stearn realities of a sea voyage. Sunday 
came, the day of rest, and with it the thoughts of our home, 



94 The Night of Affliction 

church, and people. By the kind permission of the cap- 
"tain, religious service was held, and at the sound of the 
ship's bell, which rung like a little wee church bell, in the 
same time, the strokes of the bell reminded me of the fami- 
liar Sabbath bell on land. It is near eleven o'clock, and 
the captain sends word to me, that the passengers are very 
desirous to hear me preach this morning. I sent the cap- 
tain word that it would give me great pleasure to accommo- 
date him and the passengers, but that for the present I 
must keep very quiet, for old Neptune had stirred up things 
so that it was not healthy for me to attempt to preach at 
that time, but that during the vo3^age I should be glad to 
preach Jesus to the passengers at any time. 

In the evening the sea was calmer, and I felt better of 
sea-sickness, and on the broad deck of the ship, in the 
midst of the glories of a sunset at sea, I preached to the 
passengers from the text " With God there is no respector 
of persons." I took that text because I saw that some of 
the passengers were more anxious to hear " a black man," 
(as the}^ called me) preach, than they were to be profited 
by what I might say. 

During the voyage we encountred several very severe 
storms, one of which occurred at night. I shall never forget 
the terrific grandeur of that storm at sea in the midst of 
the shades of night. A storm at sea is grand above all 
powers of description. The vivid lightning! The rolling 
thunder! The waves howling in concert with the roaring 
of the elements above ! At times, our ship was running on 
one side, while ever and anon a huge breaker would dash 
across the deck of the ship. Now we ride on a high rol- 
ling wave; now we are let down in the basin formed by 
two waves like mountains on either side of us. I tell you, 
dear reader, it may be very nice to read about a storm at 



And jMornixg op Recovery. 95 

sea, and wish yourself amid its awful grandeur, but I tell 
you there is no fun in being tossed about, first on 3'our heels 
and then liat as a flounder. And when the bell rings for 
vou to come to dinner, you sit down to a table fully fur- 
nislied with all the nice things that a good appetite (under 
other circumstances) could wish, and just as you are get- 
ting ready for the dainty dishes, after 3'ou liaye eaten of the 
iirst course, you are suddenly called to run as fast as 3'our 
feet can carry you, to the open air, and there diyide 3'our 
dinner with the fishes of the sea. Do you ask : " are 3'ou 
always sick while on sea ? " I answer, that it is possible to 
get used to most any thing, and so a person at length gets 
use I to the tossing and rolling of the ship, and then 3'ou 
may take j^our meals with some comfort. 

At lenght we pass through fourteen days and nights, and 
the white cliifs of Wales make their appearance. You can 
well imagine the joy of all on board wdien the cry of "land 
a-head!" is heard. We fiualh^ landed at Liverpool, and 
then the work of debarkation soon took place, and in 
a short time we were snugly quartered at the Victoria 
Hotel, where we were all accommodated on perfect terms 
of equalit}'. There was none of that foolish distinction 
shown on account of color that disgraces so many of our 
American hotels. I was treated the same as the other 
guests were treated. Every thing in England appeared 
beautifully strange to me, the landscape appeared in its 
most attractive garb. The beautiful hill sides dressed in 
liying green, was a cheering sight after so many days and 
nights upon the misty deep. The day after landing at 
Liverpool, I took the North Western railroad for London, 
and in due time arrived at the Great Euston Station, in 
the great city of London. 

Before T arrived at tiiis metropolis of the world, my mind 



96 The Night of AFFhiCTioN 

was filled with some anxiety as to my safety and that of 
my baggage, from thieves, etc. But when I alighted from 
the train, all these terrible forbodings were dissipated by 
the kind and courteous treatment of the officials, English 
men, the true type of the gentleman. Instead of the din 
and confusion, such as we sometimes hear from the clamor 
of hackmen at some of our American railroad stations, 
every thing was as quiet and orderly as could be. I called 
a "Hansom cab," and was soon on my wa}" to the place 
where my friend J. C. Graves was boarding. As I passed 
up and down the streets, I noted the great curiosity with 
which the English people looked and wondered at me. The 
little children seemed amazed, and some of them ran for 
.whole squares after the carriage, crying and shouting: — 
"There goes a black man! there goes a black man!" 
There certainly would not have been more amazed excite- 
ment if a menagerie had been passing along the street. 
The term "black man" is not used hy English people out 
of any disrespect on account of color. They use the term 
as distinctive from white, the same as we say " a white 
man," as distinctive from a colored man. It 'was very 
cheerino' to me to meet a colored face in that beautifully 
strange land. Having arrived at the boarding house of 
my old friend and former school companion, Rev. J. C. 
Graves, who was out at the time of my arrival, but who 
came in soon after, we had a long and hearty shake- 
hands, with mutual and generous congratulations at meet- 
ing each other after our long separation. This was on 
Thursday afternoon in the first week in June. 

On the next day I went in company with Mr. Graves to 
the Metropolitan Tabernacle College, to have an interview 
with Mr. Spurgeon respecting tlie object of my visit. At 
the conclusion of Mr. Spurgeon's Friday afternoon lecture 



And Morning of Recovery. 97 



to tlie students, on tlie " Qualifications of a Minister of 
Christ," one of the students kindly introduced me to Mr. 
Spurgeon, who greeted me in his usual kind and generous 
way of speaking, and asked me if I was traveling in Eng- 
land. I told him the object of my visit to England was lo 
secure the means of a thorough education in theology, a 
long cheerished wish since my call to the work of the min- 
istry. I was invited to remain to tea Avith the pastor and 
students, in the dining-hall of the tabernacle. It will be 
as well to mention just here, that every Friday evening 
tea is provided for those students who live remotely from 
the tabernacle, so that they ma}' be present to hear the 
lecture of Prof. Selway, who lectures every Friday evenino: 
on some topic in the sciences. After due consideration 
by Pastor C. H. Spurgeon and his estimable brother J. A. 
Spurgeon, I was admitted as one of the students of the 
"Pastor's College' of the Metropolitan Tabernacle Church, 
Loudon, England I found all the students of the college 
most gentlemanly in their demeanor towards me, and 
Christ-like in their life and conversation. 

Having a letter of introduction to Eev. Mr. Brock, of 
Bloomsbury chapel, "West End, " I went the following da}^ 
to see him. I breakfasted with him and his family in 
their beautiful home in the West End of London. Mr. 
Brock is a venerable Christian gentleman, full of Christ 
and Christian love and sympathy, so fatherly in his con- 
versation that one is involuntarily constrained to love him, 
for there is so much of Christ in all his conversation, lie 
encouraged me to remain in England and finish my educa- 
tion there, for be it remembered that it was not at first m^' 
intention to remain there^ as I went to Euii'land from 
Toronto, Caiiada, to secure tlie means to enable me to take 
a university course, uitder the supeiior rtdVantages offered 
9 



98 The Night op Affliction 



in the university of Toronto, which would also allow me 
the chance of serving the Lord and ni}^ own people by 
preaching to them as often as my duties at college would 
allow. But God directed otherwise, and finding good ad- 
vantages in the Pastor's College, London, and more favor- 
able as to its course of study for my calling as a minister 
of Christ, I finally entered upon the course of study as 
before stated, in the Pastor's College, London, England. 

The subjoined is a notice of my object in visiting Eng- 
land, from the July number of " The Freedman," published 
in London. 

"Dr. Kirk, in a recent speech at Boston, says of the 
colored people, ' the eagerness of this people to learn is one 
of the wonders of the age. Some said it was a spasm. 
If so it has lasted a good while. Their eagerness to learn 
is not dimished by difficulties, nor by familiarity with 
knowledge. We have never seen such eager scholars. The 
black man has developed splendidly. I exult in it.' 

" We have proof of this desire for intellectual progress in 
the earnest applications made to us for aid to enable stud- 
ents of the colored race, who have the capacity to enter on 
the higher departments of learning, from which they are 
now prevented for want of pecuniary means. The Rev. J. 
H. Magee, of Toronto, has crossed the Atlantic on this 
educational mission. We have carefully examined his 
credentials, and find them to be eminently satisfactory. 
We commend him and his object to the few who are suffi- 
ciently interested in. the progress of christian civilization, to 
afford to those who by their natural endowments are fitted 
to be leaders, all the culture and information that will tend 
to o-ive the best direction to their course. Those who 
really estimate the importance of such a movement will 
well understand that the number prepared to sympathize 



And 3I0KNING OF RECOVERY. 99 

and to help, must of necessity be lew at a time when pre- 
judice is strong." 

The habits of English people with legard to eating are 
most astonishing to an uninitiated American. In this 
countr}^ we are satisfied with from two to three meals a da}', 
but in England they eat from three to five meals a da}-; 
invariabl}^ four times ever}^ day is the general custom of eat- 
ing in England. Breakfast about 8 o'clock, a. m., lunch at 
10, dinner from 1 to 2 o'clock, f. m., tea at 5 o'clock, 
and supper at 10 o'clock. I was favored with four 
meals a da}?" while I was a student in college. I usually 
breakfasted at 8 o'clock, a. m., dined at 1 o'clock, p. m., 
took tea at 5 o'clock, p. m., and supped at 10 o'clock. 
During one vacation I spent a week at a friend's 
house in Guildford, Surrey, and there we had five meals a 
day ! I thought surel}' these good people will kill me with 
kindness; at least I felt solicitous lest I might become 
"foundered " b}^ a superabundance of food for the inner- 
man. There is no use in sajdng " No, I have eaten plenti- 
fully," for the hospitalit}' of the true Englishman is un- 
bounded. 

With regard to their church and chapel attendance as a 
people they have no superiors. As soon as the first church 
bells begin to toll the approaching hour of service, the 
streets are thronged with church and chapel goers. This 
to my mind was one of the most interesting features in 
English society — their profound veneration for the Sab- 
bath and its privileges. 

The Metropolitan Tabernacle is a massive stone build- 
ing, with capacity for seating six thousand, and standing 
room for about one thousand, or probabh* a few less. 
There are two rows of galleries encircling the wliole build- 
ing, the interior of which is an oval, shaped like an (}<]:;g. 



100 The Night of Affliction 

This is beautifully lighted by numerous gas jets. This is 
tlie lar2;est aud most beautiful church edifice in the world. 
And what is more beautiful, this wonderful structure is 
filled twice every Lord's da}- with devout and interested 
worshipers, drawn thither b}^ the most wonderful, as well 
as the most remarkable, preacher in the world. Mr. Spur- 
geon is certainly the " Prince " of preachers. Let me also 
remark that these crowded thousands are regular in their 
attendance every Sunday the year round, wet or dry, cold 
or hot, weather never diminishes the number of the surg- 
ing multitudes who crowd the Metropolitan Tabernacle 
every Lord's da}" to hear the Avord of life preached by the 
world's greatest and best preacher. In connection with 
this church is a ver}" large Sabbath school, numbering from 
eight hundred to one thousand scholars, whose 3'oung 
minds are trained every Lord's day from God's great book 
of discipline, which says, "Train up a child in the way it 
should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." 
There is also a large number of 3'oung men from various 
trades and pursuits in life, such as clerks, mechanics, and 
laborers, who are gathered into a " catechumen class," 
under Brothers Hanks and Bowker. These brethren teach 
the doctrines of grace as taught in the Bi])le, and illustrated 
by " Spurgeon's Catechism," a little book setting forth the 
doctrines of grace in a comprehensible and interesting 
manner. In addition to this there is a very large class of 
five hundred girls and young women, known as "Mrs. 
Bartlett's class." This devoted christian woman has been 
the means of leading hundreds to Christ. She is full of 
the Hoh" Ghost, and her whole life is one quiet christian 
course, reflecting the image and light of her Savior by her 
unobtrusive walk and conversation in life. Oh that the 
Lord would raise up hundreds of devoted women for the 



And Morning uf Recoveky. 101 

work of the Lord in America sucli as Mrs. Bartlett, of 
London, England. 

It was my happy privilege to attend one of the great 
coUeoe tea meetinos at the Tabernacle. Americans are 
nnaccnstomed to these social reunions, called " tea meet- 
ings " in England. The}' are conducted on this wise: A 
long table jr tables encircle the lecture room of the Taber- 
nacle, upon which are spread the Avhitest linen, set with 
plates, cups and saucers, bread and butter, and fine, rich 
fruit cake (the like of which I have seen only in P^ngland), 
and abundance of sandwiches. After the grace is sung by 
all in the house — 

''Be present at our table, Lord, 
Be here and everywhere adored ; 

These iner.i »> I)le<-, and grant t!i t we 
May rea<t in Paradise witli Thee.'' 

These beautiful lines are sung to the tunc (U' Old Hundred; 
and such singing! so even, round, and full, like the voice 
of many waters. Then tea is served, and while tliose at 
the table are eating, others in adjoining rooms are singing, 
singing the most charming h3'mns I ever heard. Oh, I 
tell you, these tea meetings are glorious times of social 
and religious reunions. They sing at their work; sing 
when on their annual reunions and excursions. The music 
of voices unites with the music of the rippling waters of 
the Thames as joll^'-boats glide over its silvery waves. 
The result of this tea meeting netted £1385, making in 
United States money 80925. The result was swelled to 
this amount by pledges and contributions b}' persons 
}) resent. 

Mr. Spurii'eon's mo le of conducting reliu'ious service is 
peculiar to himself, that is, I have never seen any one con- 
duct the services just as he does; just a quarter before 



102 The Night op Affliction 



eleven o'clock the great preacher comes through a door 
leading from an upper room adjacent, in the rear of the 
tabernacle. He is followed by his Elders and Deacons, who 
seat themselves on each side of the preacher's stand (a 
small table upon which .ay a Bible and hymn-book.) Mr. 
Spurgeon walks slowly to the railing circling the i)latform, 
places his hands on top of the railing and savs : " Let us 
pray." This is a short pra3X'r occupying only a few 
minutes. He now gives out a hymn, reading it through, 
announcing the tune in a clear, soft, musical voice ; the 
presenter or leader who stands to the left of the preacher, 
leads oft' in the singing. The preacher gives out a whole 
verse at the time, and sings with the congregation. After 
singing, he reads a chapter, or a part of a chai)ter, ex- 
pounding verse after verse. After reading, he again en- 
gages in the second or long prayer, occup3-ing from ten to 
fifteen minutes. He now reads another hymn, which is 
sung by the congregation without lining. After this, he 
takes his text and preaches fortj-five minutes, ver}- rarely 
exceeding or falling short of that time. Boxes are placed 
at convenient places in the great tabernacle to receive the 
voluntary contributions of the congregation. On a card, 
neatly and conspicuously arranged, is the late and amount 
of the previous Sunday's collection; this method is con- 
tinued from week to week, so that every Sunda}^ the con- 
gregation knows just what amount of money was taken up 
"last Sunda}^" Their Sabbath collection varies from 
forty to fifty pounds, in our mone}^ from two hundred to two 
hundred and fifty dollars. This is given away for the 
support of students attending the college, and is so 
stated in large letters on or over the contribution boxes, 
" weekly off'erings for the Pastors College." The pastor's 
salary is raised by rents from pew-holders. 



And Morning op Recovery. 103 

My college course was the ' ordinary branches of 
English, Arithmetic, Modern and Ancient Histor}', Geo- 
graphy, Natural Science, Greek and Latin with an occa- 
sional lesson in Hebrew. Theology was made a specialty. 
Prof. Rodgers being our principal teacher in that depart- 
ment. We studied " Coles on Divine Sovereignty," " Char- 
nocks works," " The Bible Hand Book," by Dr. Angus. 
Mr. Spurgeon usually lectured us once a week on " Matter 
and Manner of Preaching," and such subjects as " On 
adorning Ministerial Office," " The Authority of the Minis- 
ter in the Church," " The Sabbath Question," « The Visi- 
tation of a Church," " Platform Speaking." These lectures 
were always interesting and full of meaning. Some of my 
most pleasant memories are associated with my interest in 
the Tabernacle College Lectures by Mr. C. H. Spurgeon. 
My. James Spurgeon took turns in giving these lectures 
during the temporar}^ absence of Mr. C. H . Spurgeon from 
the cit}', or when he was otherwise engaged. I remember 
with very great profit one of Mr. Spurgeon' s lectures on 
" Connection of a Sermon with the Text." Mr. Oflerd 
lectured on " Types of the Holy Scriptures." Some atten- 
tion was given to rhetoric. Lectures on " The Beautiful," 
by Prof. Rodgers; on the " Choice of a Text," by Rev. C. 
H. Spurgeon ; " Spiritualizing a Text," by James Spurgeon; 
"Division of a Text," by James Spurgeon; "The Pastor's 
Oversight of Himself," by C. H. Spurgean ; " Lectures on 
Logic," In" Rev. G. Rodgers; "On pure extemporaneous 
Preaching," by C. H. Spurgeon; "On Exposition of the 
Chapter read," by C. H. Spurgeon; "On the Voice," by 
C. H. Spurgeon ; also a lecture every Friday evening on 
some scientific subject, by Prof Selway. 

Quarterly" examinations were had on all the subjects 
gone over the previous term, and certificates awarded 



104 The Night of Affliction 

according to the relative standing of each student in his 
class and studies. 

Outline of the Lord's Work by the Pastors' College 

During 1867. 

PRESIDENT'S E E T T E R . 

Beloved Friends : — You have m}' deepest gratitude for 
the help rendered to the Lord's work in my hands during 
another year. Although the number of donors is some- 
what less than in previous years, yet the amount sent in 
is rather larger, and has been exactly sufficient to meet the 
expenditure, with only a few shillings to spare. Not a 
farthing has been expended upon collecting the amount, 
and thus your gifts, without deduction, have gone at once 
to the work in hand. We hope always to pursue this 
method, for we are sure that Christian willinghood ought 
to be sufficient to carry on the Lord's work without the 
employment of paid agents to scrape together unwilling 
doles. 

As to our object in conducting the College, we rejoice 
that we have been successful in it beyond our own hopes. 
Our lirst aim has been to educate men of native talent, 
with good speaking pov.-ers, who believed themselves to be 
called to the work of the ministry. We persistently refuse 
men who are recommended to us as persons of character 
and studious habits, who, nevertheless, have not actually 
tried their powers of speech. We must have s];eakers; 
we can give a man education, but it would be useless to 
profess to bestow oratorical powers. We expect the men 
to have had two or three years' i)reaching at the least, and 
to have had evidences of usefulness following their laboi s, 
and then our object is to remove the rudeness of ignorance 
and supply the knowledge in which they are deficient. 



And ]\[()Rning op Rkcovery. 105 



Scholarship we do not despise or ueulect, l)iit our main 
object is to educate the })i-actical rather thau tlie learned 
man. We want, b}' God's help, in the first place to send 
out good preachers, good pastors, good evangelists ; and 
secondarily, good scholars — good scholars, however, only 
with the view of their being efficient preachers. Wetliink 
that God uses every variet}' of talent, but that the shrewd, 
common-sense, rough-and-ready brother, when anointed 
with hol}^ zeal, be he learned or not, is usually the success- 
ful man: such men we seek for, and such men seek for us. 
We have always scores of applicants waiting, and believe 
we alwa3'S shall have, for the institution grows in favor 
with the young men of our churches. 

Several gentlemen have applied to us both from the 
United States, our Ci)lonies, and Germany, and we seem 
to be in such good repute, that when we have larger and 
better rooms we shall, in all probabilit}', be able to receive 
a class of men, in good position in life, who will be able to 
maintain themselves and become, from previous educati(jn, 
preachers of a superior order. For this object we are 
praying the Lord to send us a large sum to build suitable 
class-rooms, more lio"ht and airy and health v tiian our 
present almost subterranean apartments. 

Our course of study varies with the character of the 
student; as will be seen in the tutors' notes, some men are 
considerably advanced in Hebrew and Greek, and we (H)nld 
wish that more were able to push their studies onwai-d to 
the higher points, but it would be foil}', especially with 
our short term, to attempt to drive all forward to the same 
extent. The knowledge would be sorrowfully superficial, 
and, for the sake of show, the more valuable departments 
of study would be neglected. We attach great importance 
to the No,tural Sciences, which are taught 1)v a o-entleman 



106 The Night op Affliction 

whose acquaintance with tliem is most extensive — who has, 
in fact, a passion for tliem. These 3ield a fund of illustra- 
tion, and open up a field of thought compared with w^hich 
classics (excellent in their own way) are but a barren 
mountain. A little anatom}', electricity, astronomy, or geol- 
ogy, while it affords relief from severer studies, is, at the 
same time, an enlarging of the range of the powers of the 
mind. To all we labor to give a liberal English education 
and sound Biblical instruction ; failures there are, but in 
the main success has remarkably rewarded our efforts. 

Our theology is Puritanic; neither hyper-Calvinistic nor 
Pelagian. We believe in the sovereignty of God and the 
responsibilit}' of man ; w^e hold predestination and free- 
agenc}' ; we see that salvation is altogether of grace, but we 
look for holiness as its result ; w^ believe that the Holy 
Spirit works all good things in us, but we work out our 
own salvation with fear and trembling. We hope we have 
had a share in restoring to the pulpits of our country a 
clearer and fuller gospel testimony; as our sphere enlarges 
we hope to do more. 

While with us as students, our brethren are exhorted to 
attempt to found new interests. Most of them during the 
summer are street-preachers, some of them all the j^ear 
round proclaim the Savior in the highways. A service 
has been regularly conducted under the portico of the 
Tabernacle. In many cases a room has been hired in 
destitute neighborhoods, a small church has been gathered, 
a congregation collected, a larger room has been engaged, 
a chapel has been projected, a self-supporting church has 
been raised. Thus have many of our men made spheres 
for themselves. The fear of some old women of the male 
sex was, that we should overstock our denomination. Our 
answer is that we hope to increase it more and more. Since 



And MoiiNiNG OF Recovery. 107 

the College commenced, two hundred and lift3'-three men 
have been received for training in its regular classes, and 
at lest four hundred and sixty have had instruction in the 
Evening Classes. One hundred and fiftv-five students 
have gone from us to settle in the ministry, of whom one 
linndred and fortj^-four still remain in the work, the rest 
having either died, been laid aside b}' illness, or relin- 
ciuished the work from other causes. Thirt3^-nine distinct 
new churches have been formed by the agency of our Col- 
lege. Twentj'-two new chapels have been erected as the 
result of our agenc}'. In London, at the present moment, 
we are making efforts to establish churches in eleven desti- 
tude districts. There are seventj'-eight students in the 
College at this moment, and one hundred and seventy-four 
under tuition in the Evening Classes. Our men have, for 
the most part, either gone to old churches so impoverished 
as not to be able to support pastors, until the}' were revived 
and in man}' cases reformed, or else the}' have located 
in spots in which there was no Baptist church, and have 
built on entirely fresh ground. A notable instance is that 
of the count}' of Kent. In Bromley there was no Baptist 
interest till, by open air preaching, services in the assem- 
bly rooms, and other agencies, a church was formed and a 
good chapel erected. Sittingbourne — serA'ices in corn ex- 
change, church formed, chapel built ; Faversham — preach- 
ing in a hall, church formed, funds collecting; Sheerness — 
congregation gathered, church just formed; Whitstable — 
first efforts about to be made; Tunbridge — church formed, 
worshiping in town hall, minister settled. The County 
Association has been hand-in-hand with us, but it would 
not have been able to carry out these operations alone. 
We work with existing agencies as their fellow helper, and 
only wish we could find all our associations sufficiently spir- 



108 The Night of Affliction 



ited to encoura"e us. There is vet very much land to be 
possessed, and, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, all that is 
wanted is courage and determination. 

It is encouraging to observe that our brethren for the 
most pai't remain at their first settlement, or have only 
moved where their sphere was too confined and a wider 
door presented itself. Asa rule the}' have been very suc- 
cessful in winning souls, and the statistics of their churches 
are rpmarkably encouraging. 

Durino- the year we have published two works which are 
stereotyped, and the plates are the property of the College, 
Elisha Coles on Divine Sovereignty, at two shillings and 
sixpence; and John Bunyan's Water of Life, at one shilling. 
We hope by occasional publications to spread the ti'uth 
and perhaps aid our funds. The grand volume of Thomas 
Watson's Body of Divinity we have ready for speedy issue. 

We are stren"thened in our conviction that our College 
is doing the Lord's work, and we earnestly ask those who 
think so to help us in our labors. We have no personal 
interest to serve in any form or degree, and therefore we 
ask boldly for Jesus' sake. We endeavor to expend the 
funds with the utmost econom}^ but, as in most cases we 
have to find our brethren with clothes and books, as well 
as board and lodging, our expenses will always be more 
per head than at institutions where all the students find a 
proportion of the cost personally or by their friends. 

Before closino- we are bound to thank our friends who 
contribute so constantly to the weekly oftertory, which, as 
the account shows, is a large scource of revenue. The 
Lord bless those helpers and all others, accepting their 
gifts for Jesus' sake. 

C. H. SruRGEON, President. 



And ^Iormng of "RKCDvrajY. 109 



VICE-PRESIDENT'S REPORT. 

The course of study this session as pursued under my 
direction is, with a few alternations, a continuauce of that 
of preceding years. Each Monday and Friday afteruoop. 
all the students meet for class work, when lectures a it 
given on horailetics, church government, Sunday-school 
work, missions, and subjects of practical importance to 
ministers. In the course of the year we have had the 
help of several brethren, in connection with these topics, 
including a deputation from the Young Men's Missionary 
Society, and our esteemed brother, JNIr. Smith, the mis- 
sionary from Africa; an exceedingly valuable set of lectures 
by ]Mr. OlFord on the Types of Scripture; able papers by our 
brethren, C. Bailhache (on the Sabbath) and McCree on 
Misquoted passages of the Bible. 

We are also indebted to Mr. Wigner for a lecture on the 
*' Christian iMinistr3\" Twice we have enjoyed an exposi- 
tion of the principles and practices of the Society of 
Friends both in England and America, given by some of 
their most able men. Mr. Stokes has also delivered his 
lecture on " ^Memory," in the course of the session, and we 
have further had the pleasure of an account of the opera- 
tions of the "Basle Mission and the A])ostolic Hishwav," 
from the son of the esteemed brother who guides that 
movement. 

With regard to class work, the students deliver in rota- 
tion a paper on Monda}^ afternoon: the subject consists of 
a short essay on some part of English hi8tor3', or the life 
of some noted statesman or kino-. 

On Friday afternoon the books of the Bible, their au- 
thors, contents, etc., have furnished the tliome of the papers 
which are criticised and supplemented by the tutor. 



110 The Night of Affliction 

Church liistory, Roman histoiy, Biblical history and the 
connection of the Old Testament with the New have con- 
tinued to claim our attention, and the Greek histoiy will 
now shortly come again under our notice. 

I. The First Class has read the book of Joel in Hebrew, 

and is now engaged on the Psalms. 

II. The Second Class has begun the book of Genesis, and 

continues the stud}^ of the grammars of the Hebrew 
and Greek languages, and has translated a part of the 
book of Acts. 

III. The Third Class continues the study of " Charnock 
on the Attributes," and the Greek and Latin gram- 
mars. 

IV. The Junior Class has completed the President's " Hand- 
book of Theolooy," and has commenced Charnock, and 
the elements of the Latin and Greek languages. 

I am glad to report that in my visits to the residences 
of the students, no charge affecting the moral character 
of any one of them has come under my notice. A few of 
the brethren have returned to their trade on the advice of 
the Presidents, but they do so carrying with them our 
warmest Christian love and esteem; and, though in our 
opinion not called to the work of the public ministry, we 
hope to hear of them as filling their posts in the church 
ot the Lord. 

Reviewing the whole of the 3^ear's work I am glad and 
cheered to be able to report most favorably. The brethren 
are walking in all unity of spirit and holiness of character, 
in the course of students' life, which will, I trust, in due 
time lead them to an honored and extremely useful career 
as workmen needing not be ashamed, rightly dividing the 
word of truth. 



And Morning of Recovery. Ill 

TUTORS' REPORT. 

During the past twelve months the various classes have 
been well attended, and they hitherto have shown not only 
unabated, but increased ardor in stud3\ Their attention 
has been directed to man}^ and, dissimilar subjects, and in 
all a distinct and real advance has been made. As some, 
though vvith considerable native talent, and with the true 
spirit for the work, entered the College suffering from a 
defective earh' education in English, special care has been 
taken first to remove this great hindrance to their useful- 
ness by exercising them incessantl}' in the arts of compo- 
sition and speaking, and then gradually to lead them to 
liioher branches of studv. Those who have come with a 
previous acquaintance of mathematics and classics liaA^e 
been taken through courses adapted to their different stages 
of proficiency; while all have attended lectures on theolog- 
ical, moral, and scientific subjects. 

Mr. Rogers has been reading critical lectures on the 
books of Scripture; lectures on systematic divinity, con- 
ceived in a lively and interesting st3'le, and free from the 
technicalities of the schools; and lectures on homiletics, 
moral philosophy, logic, and rhetoric. Mr. Rogers has 
likewise held classes for the study of the Greek Testament, 
Hebrew, and mathematics. 

In Mr. Gracey's classes the junior students have been 
confined to the rudiments of Latin and Greek; the more 
advanced have read selections from Cornelius Nepos and 
Xenophon, and the seniors have been engaged in transla- 
ting Cicero's De Senectute, the sixth book of Virgil's 
^neid, the Clio of Herodotus, the first book of i1r\ Iliad, 
and the Acts of the Apostles. Arnold's Excersises have 
been used in both the latter classes as the basis of instruc- 



1 1 2 The Night of Affliction 



tioii in Latin and Greek composition. In tlie New Testa- 
ment class, every endeavor has been made thoroughly to 
investigate the text and bring forth the most useful results 
of modern ci'iticism, since a critical knowledge of the 
original is valuable beyond all price to the minister of thu 
gospel. 

Mr. Fergusson has kept the new men emplo3'ed at the 
elements and higher departments of English, using chietly 
Dr. Angus's Handbook as a text-book, and has taken 
large classes through a course of geograph}^, pli3'sical and 
political. 

Mr. Selway's weekly lectures on the pli3'sical sciences 
have been exceedingly attractive from their popular man- 
ner, and veiy instructive from the vast amount and variety 
of the information they contain. 

It was my privilege to hear Rev. Newman Hall at the 
Tabernacle on America. This lecture was listened to by 
about eight thousand people. The lecture was most inter- 
esting to every one. and particularly so to me from my own 
knowledoe of many scenes and incidents which he so 
graphicall}^ described. Mr. Hall is a profound thinker and 
an earnest and faithful minister of Christ. He has done 
pTcat o-ood in the cause of Christ, and exerted a wonderful 
power and influence in behalf of the bondmen in America. 
The memory of Newman Hall, like that of Abraham Lin- 
coln, will forever be associated as the friend of the oppressed. 

Towards the close of 1867 I was taken sick. M}- illness 
seemed to be a return of my old complaint, the affliction 
of my knee-joint. This was occasioned by a fall which I 
received while crossing the Atlantic ocean. It happened 
in this wise: The deck of the ship was wet and slippeiy 
from the washing of the s]n-ay and the swelling waves, 
which had been lashed into fury by a tcrrilic stoim which 



And Morning of Ivecovkry. 113 

lasted two days and two nights. Earh^ one morning, after 
the storm had somewhat abated, I attempted to cross from 
one side of the deck to the other with a basin of water in 
my hands ; when I had reached about the middle of the 
deck, b}" a sudden lurch of the ship, which plunged to one 
side, I was instantly thrown with tremendous force on to the 
deck ; in falling my left knee first struck the deck, and 
then my head. The basin of water went one way, my cane 
another, and I was scattered about the deck in great con- 
fusion. I arose with a tingling sensation all over me and 
a sharp pain in the bone of my left knee. This gradually 
o-rew worse until it culminated in a serious swellini>" of the 
knee-joint, accompanied with the most acute pain. I suf- 
fered so much from this that I had to retire from my stud- 
ies : the pain being so great that I could not stand, sit, or 
walk without suffering the most excruciating pain. My 
knee became so badly afflicted that serious fears were en- 
tertained b}' my physician that an amputation of the wliole 
left leg, from the upper part of the femur, would be neces- 
sar}' in order to save my life. 

It was just here that the critical moment of my life 
seemed to tremble in the balance betwixt life and dealii ; 
now the trying time seemed to come. I could not walk; I 
could not stand ; I could not lie still, so great was the pain. 
I was advised to try one of the best physicians in London, 
whose services as lecturer on surger}' had become famous 
in King's College, London. Bv the goodness of God and 
the careful treatment of my physician, Mr. Simon, I rallied 
after a most trying and painful illness of four months, 
durins: which time scores of kind friends visited me with 
spiritual advice and pra^'ers, among whom were Mr, Spur- 
geon and his dear, good brother James. Two and three 

times a week from ten to fifteen and twentv-five would 
10 



114 The Night of Affliction 

visit me; some briiigino- nourishment of various kinds, 
others all the little delieaeies and fruits of the season. On 
several occasions I had enough confections at m}' bedside 
to set up a small shop in a small way. I shall never for- 
get the kindness of those dear, good people, whose memor}' 
will alwa^'s be green, and associated with some of the hap- 
piest moments of m}' life. 

Special pra3'er was made for m}- recovery on two occa- 
sions in Mr. Spurgeon's church. God heard those pra} ers, 
and in answer to them I was brought back from the borders 
of the a*rave. 

"• When all thj^ mercies, O my God, 
My risi'io' soul surveys; 
Transported with the view, I'm lost 
In wonder, love, and praise. 

" Affliction's blast hath made me learn 
To feel for others" woe. 
And humbly seek, with deep concern. 
My own defects to know. 

••' Then rage, ye storms I ye billow^s roar ; 
My heart deties your shock ; 
Ye make me cling to God the more— 
To God, my sheltering rock." 

The following lines express my feelings when looking 
at the goodness of God to me in all my past life : 

"My God, thy service well demands 
The remnant of my daj's; 
Why was this fleeting breath renewed 
But to renew thy praise. 

*'Tliine arms of everlasting love 
Did this weak frame sustain 
When life w^as hovering o'er the grave, 
And nature sunk with pain. 



And Morning of Recovery, 115 

" Into thy hands, my Savior God, 
Did I my soul resign, 
In firm dependence on that truth 
Which made salvation mine. 

*' Back from the borders of the grave, 
At thy command I came ; 
Nor will I ask a speedier flight 
To mj' celestial home. 

*' Where thou appointest mine abode 
There would I choose to be ; 
For in thj^ presence death is life, 
And earth is heaven with Thee." 

After 1113^ recovery I was permitted to attend Mr. Spur- 
geon's birth-day festival, which was held on the beautiful 
grounds of the Stockwell Orphanage. It was on the 19th 
day of June, 1868. The air was sweetly perfumed with 
the breath of roses and other blooming flowers ; the trees 
were dressed in living green; the earth teemed with life 
and happiness. It was one of those dreamy da3's in leafy 
June when the very air seems agitated with the flutter of 
angels' wings. The subjoined is from m}^ note book, 
penned the day after the reunion : 

June 19th, 1868. — I attended the thirty-fourth birth an- 
niversary of our dear pastor and president; saw the grand- 
est sight I ever witnessed. First, Mr. Thomas Onley laid 
the foundation stone of the Sunday' school house of the 
Stockwell Orphanage. Mrs. Spurgeon laid the first stone 
of the students' house of the Stockwell Orphanage. She 
was dressed in a light dove-colored silk dress. She wore 
a small bonnet (the fashion of the season), and white kid 
gloves. Mrs. Spurgeon having recovered her health from 
a serious illness of nearly six months' duration, was wel- 
comed amongst the members b}^ the young ladies of the 
officei's of the church. A raised platform having been 



116 The Night op Affliction 



erected and covered with crimson, a number of the above- 
mentioned 3'oung misses assembled on the pLatform, upon 
which sat Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Spui'geon, Mr. J. A. Spur- 
geon, and many of the officers of the church. One of the 
little girls having presented Mrs. Spurgeon an appropriate 
written address and a purse of money, being followed by 
the rest who went up and welcomed dear Mrs. Spurgeon 
among them, each presenting a purse containing sovereigns. 

The next thing in order was the tea, an abundance of 
which had been prepared. A table had been set under a 
commodious shed beautifully decorated with numerous 
scripture devices, such as " By grace are ye saved through 
faith;" "Let brotherly love continue." 

I had just recovered from a severe illness of four 
months' duration, and was quite lame, but being provided 
with my " ponies," a crutch and walking cane, I managed 
to make my way near the table, to which my good brother, 
Rev. Mr. Ripper, brought me a chair, and sat me down in 
the midst of some ladies, who, by the by, were very happy 
to see me, and gave me such a welcome as made me feel 
very comfortable. One or two ladies waited on me by 
brinains: the bread and butter and tea, which I ate and 
drank with great pleasure, talking the while about the 
beautiful da}^ and the happiness of all around. 

After tea a general rush ensued in making their wa}^ to 
the grand stand for the great open-air public meeting. 
Miss Walker carried a chair for me and one for herself. 
We sat down in a very comfortable place just at the side 
of the stand. On this occasion, according to previous 
arrangements, a presentation of purses to Mr. C. H. Spur- 
geon took place by the ladies, who had undertaken to col- 
lect money to present to him on his birthday. One after 
another of youth and beauty passed from the left of the 



And Morning op Ivecoveuy. 117 

stand to the right, on which stood a large table by which 
Mr. Spurgeon sat to receive the generous gifts of liis dear 
followers. The amount collected in one hundred and fifty 
purses was £110, or the neat sum of 8700. An additional 
sum of a £100 was presented to him by Mr. Brown, on 
behalf of the students of the Pastor's College, for the stud- 
ents' house; making, Avith a previous presentation of £300, 
the round sum of $2700. 

I must not forget to mention the band which enlivened 
the scenic beaut}^ by delightful music. Long after the sun 
had set upon the thousands of happy hearts; when the 
twilight of eve had set in — such beautiful twilight that you 
might imagine it to be the return of the declining da}- — 
the festive scene closed serene and bright, fitting emblem 
of the illustrious birthdav of one of the greatest and best 
men that ever breathed the breath of life. May he live to 
see many, nianj^ very many happy returns of this auspi- 
cious da}' : and when the time comes for this eminent man 
of God to be gathered to his Fatlier in glory, may it be 
the lot of the congregated thousands who liaA^e listened to 
his voice on earth to meet him to pass an eternitj'' of bliss 
in the paradise of God. 

I forgot to mention in the proper place the speakers of 
the da}', who were Mr. Spurgeon's father, Mr. J. A. Spur- 
geon, Mr. A. Brown, A. Mursell, Mr. Stott, and Mr. Brown; 
Rev. C. H. Spurgeon giving the closing address. 

Mr. Spurgeon's Tabernacle is one vast bee-hive of busy 
christian workers. A daily morning praj'er meeting is 
held in the church from 6 to 7 o'clock. The Stockwell 
Orphanage was built by the generosity of his congregation 
and the assistance of friends at a distance. Bv the uroent 
request of many of my friends who desired to hear me 
preach, I rented a hall known as Carter street hall, where 



118 The Night of Affliction 



I dispensed the gospel of Christ every Sunday evening for 
some time, to hundreds of interested hearers. I continued 
preaching in this hall until failing health laid me aside. 



CHAPTER XL 

LONDON, THE METROPOLIS OF THE WORLD. 

Public Buildings— Over Ground and under Ground Pailroads— 
The West End--Belgravia— Parks— Kew Gardens and Palace 
— Tlie Goodness of Goa--Churches--The Bible the Secret ot 
England's Greatness--'' Icliabod." the Cause of a Nation's 
Weakness— City Government— The great Fire of London- 
Tower of London— Crystal Palace— The British Museum- 
King's Library-St. Paul's Cathedral- Westminister Abbey- 
Hampton— A Letter from Elder De Baptiste— A Letter from 
my Mother—Preparations to return to America— Notes ot 
kind Friends— Homeward bound— Home again— A sad message 
—Death of my Mother— My greatest Loss— Her Funeral— Both 
ready and willing to go—'* My Way is cleai* and Heaven Is my 
view "—Last Letter from Mother. 

To form an idea of this great city, you may add the 
population of New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, St. 
Louis, Cincinnati, Chicago, Baltimore, and San Francisco 
together, and yet London, England, contains more inhabi- 
tants than all these eight cities combined! London is 
the most populous, as well as the most wealthy, city in the 
world. It contains more than three millions of inhabitants! 
It is situated in two counties, Middlesex and Surrey. The 
river Thames passes through the southern part of this 
magnificient city. In addition to London proper, the city 
comprises Lambeth, Finsbury, Kensington, Greenwich, 
Chelsea, and several other parts known to the people of 
Eno-land by their distinctive titles, but thev all constitute 



And Morning of Recoveky. 119 



what is universally known as the great city of London. It 
covers an nroa of about thirty five thousand acres of land. 
It is nearly twenty-two miles in length and about sixteen 
miles in breadth ; its circumference is not less than forty 
miles. The north and south portions of London are con- 
nected by brllges which span the river Thames. Some of 
the most notable of which are, London, Blackfriars, Water- 
loo, Westminister, Southwark, Wandsworth, Hammersmith, 
and several others of minor importance. The Thames Tun- 
nel affords a passage way under the turbid waters of the 
river to those wishing to go under instead of over the river 
to different parts of the city. 

" The London Docks cover about one hundred acres of 
ground, of which nearly a third part is water. The A^aults 
beneath the warehouses have cellarage for sixty-five thous- 
and pipes of wine, and one of the vaults has an area of seven 
acres " I wish they might use them for^some other purpose 
than to store away wine to make people mad. 

"The more noticable public buildings of the city are: 
the Tower of London; the Royal Mint ; St. Paul's Cathedral; 
the General Postoffice; the Guild Hall; Mansion House; the 
hall of the various livery companies, or trade guilds; the 
Bank of England (covering eight acres) ; Royal Exchange; 
Stock Exchange; Corn Exchange; Coal Exchange; Cus- 
tom House: East India House." The city is furnished 
with railroads both above and below the ground. Those 
above ground are constructed upon immense trestle work 
of brick, and it is wonderful to see the iron horse carry- 
ing his train over the tops of houses fort}^ feet above 
p-ro.uuil. Tlie train stops at various streets or stations, and 
passengers alight on to a platform and station house and 
decend to the street by means of stairways. The under- 
oroinid vjxili-oad is equally interesting and wonderful. 



120 The Night of Affliction 



Passengers wishing to tak-^ the iinderoround railroad have 
simpty to enter a station and decend by means of stairs 
until the}^ come within the enclosure known as the under- 
ground station. We have to wait here only a few minutes, 
and the scream of the whistle is heard, and soon the ap- 
proaching train emerges from a sort of tunnel with its 
low, puffing chimue}^, blackened by accumulated smoke. 
The tunnel is kept pure by means of " air passes," and the 
cars are lighted by the tapers or lamps which are kept 
burning all the time. " Gower Station ! " the guard shouts, 
and persons wishing to go out at " Gower Street," come out 
upon the lighted platform and go up stairs to the open street 
in the open light of day. 

The most beautiful as well as the most fashionable part 
of London is know as the west-end. It is here that the 
rich and noble lords, ladies, and gentlemen reside. Their 
palatial residences are resplendent with all that wealth, art, 
and culture can make them. 

The Houses of Parliament deserve special mention for 
their magnificence of architecture and beautiful finish. 
The upper house is called house of lords, and the other is 
called HOUSE of commons, to attend to the business of the 
united realm of Great Britian and Ireland. Parliament 
was introduced by King John, as early as 1215. 

A little way from the Houses of Parliament is situated 
Westminister Abbey, where there lay the bones of many of 
England's great men, and kings of the realm. Westminis- 
ter is west of the river Thames, its limits contain the 
Royal Palace, at the extreme west of St. James' Park, and 
the fashionable district called Belgravia. This is certainly 
the handsomest part of London. Belgravia is situated 
around a beautiful circular park of blooming flowers, rare 
shrubs, and exotics, which are even beautiful in winter, but 



And Morning of Recovery. 121 



amid summer's milder skies, and gentle showers, it is lovel}^ 
— a perfect paradise of lovliness. 

A little north-west of Belgravia is H3'de Park. It was 
on a Saterday afternoon in October that I paid a visit to 
this celebrated park. It is impossible for me to describe 
it, such is the beauty- of the rare plants, trees, fine walks, 
rolled as smooth and level as a floor, intersected by a body 
of water called the Serpentine. This was constructed by 
order of Queen Caroline about two hundred 3'ears ago. 
The park contains four hundred acres of land, and is now 
one of the most fashionable promonades of the weath}' and 
nobility of London. The road- way around the park is 
crowded with carriages and horses, liveried servants, dressed 
in their knee breeches and white silk stockinsfs, stand in 
pairs behind richly ornamented carriages. The driver and 
footman being seated in front. I Avas amazed at the pow- 
dered wigs, white as chalk, worn b}^ liverymen and footmen. 
For over two hours the carriage drive, or road for carriages, 
was a grand moving panorama of wealth, grandeur, and 
beauty. It was here that I got a sight of some of the royal 
family. 

Regents Park and Zoological Gardens are places of in- 
terest in London. Kew Gardens is situated about seven 
miles west of London. These mao:niflcent gardens contain 
over two hundred acres of land; within these uardens is 
Kew Palace, a residence of English Lords and monarchs. 
4i These gardens are perfectl^^ beautiful, certainly the most 
lovely spot of ground my eyes ever beheld Walks laid out 
in great regularit}^ fringed with grasses of various shades 
of color, which surround blooming flowers of the most 
brilliant as well as the most delicate hue. I wish I could 
remember the names of some of the rare plants and flowers 
with which my eyes were so much deiiglited! Wlien look 
II 



122 The Night of Affliction 

ing at the beautiful flowers, the green lawns, and stately 
trees of these magnificent gardens, over which the clear 
blue sky of a summer's day with a soft, balm}^ air, lent en- 
chantment to the scene, I exclaimed : — " What a paradise 
of loveliness! If it were not for sin, sorrow, and death, this 
place would be heaven indeed! " It is here that m}^ mind 
was wonderfully impressed with the goodness of God in 
creation. Surely this is a beautiful world in which the 
Almighty furnished so many things which tell of their 
great Creator. My mind devoutly turns from these scenes 
of fading gloiy to our Fathers house in heaven, where 
things are eternal in their existence. Here earth's fairest 
flowers, and most beautiful scenes bloom to decay, but in 
their short lived existence they seem to speak of the J03'S 
that cannot die bej^ond the regions of this fading world; 
there are glories which change not, neither is their period 
marked by the flight of 3'ears. 

London contains over four thousand churches xind chap- 
els, in whose consecrated walls the God of heaven and 
earth is worshiped b}^ thousands of devoted Christians. 
Great Britain is the most wealthy as M^ell as the most 
powerful country in the tvhole world. Her missionaries 
have done more for the heathen, her money has printed 
and distributed more Bibles than any other Chrirtian coun- 
try under heaven. Now I want to remark to the inquiring 
mind that the secret of England's oreatness is found in 
her love for the Bible, the Book of God. The Bible is read* 
and taught in their parish schools, it is read daily by their 
families, it is taken into the work-shop and read at noon- 
time, and whenever an opportunity is found. The Bible is 
found on most every ship, and certainly on every steamer 
that pl3'S beween England and the nat'ons of the whole 
earth. Look at France, where the teachings of the Bible 



And Morning of I?i:covery.. 123 



have been discarded by most of its people. You have seen 
the results — a loss of its temporal power, and certainlv a 
loss of its spiritual power. The wickedness of her people 
is unparalleled in the bistort}^ of civilized nations. What 
is the cause of her weakness! I emphatically answer: The 
habitual neglect and disregard of the Bible ! Let a nation put 
aside the Bible for reason, or any other directing principle, 
* and "Ichabod" is already written on the frontlets of that 
people or nation ! He who would be great as well as good 
must read and study the Bible! The nation that would 
prosper, must build its foundation on the eternal principles 
of the Bible, and make its laws according to the righteous 
laws of God. The nation whose foundation is truth, has 
" the eternal 3-ears of God." 

The City of London is under a lord-maj-or, aldermen and 
common council. They form the richest city government 
in the world. London is one of the oldest cities in the 
world. Its history- dates back as far as the invasion b}- 
the Romans ; before this, however, nothing is known of its 
history. As early as the reign of Nero, history tells that 
it was an important cit}'. It received its charter after the 
Norman conquest, the original of which is preserved to 
this day. 

A monument now stands in the midst of the city to 
mark the spot in commemoration of the great fire of Lon- 
don, wdiich destro3^ed over $50,000,000 of propert}^ in the 
3'ear 1666. 

The Tower of London is associated with the earliest 
histor}' of England. It occupies a space covering thirteen 
acres of land, and was formerl}' used for a fort or fortress, 
afterwards as a prison ; uoav it is a storehouse for the armory; 
the crown jewels are also kept there. The main buihl- 
ing is surrounded by two strong, high walls ; these are also 



124 The Night of Affliction 



surrounded by a canal, which is usually dry, but which 
may be flooded at a moment's notice. It was here that 
Richard III. caused his nephews, Edward V. and Richard, 
Duke of York, to be murdered in order to secure the throne 
of England for himself. 

St. Paul's Cathedral was built by Sir Christopher Wren. 
This is one of the finest, if not the finest, public building 
in London. Religious services are held in this house every 
day by the English clergy of the Anglican church. 

Crystal Palace is one of the world's wonders. Within 
its ample enclosure is to be found on exhibition some- 
thing of everything in the world of arts and sciences; also 
many specimens of the animal and vegetable kingdoms. 
It is also a grand bazar, in which many of the finest fabrics 
are on sale and exhibition. In these collections may be 
found everything in the notion line from a cambric needle 
up to a sewing machine. This is one of the grand places 
of resort for the teeming millions of Great Britain, for its 
patronage is by no means confined to the people of London. 

I listened with rapt attention to the singing of three 
thousand children on one occasion in the great hall or 
transept of Crystal Palace. It is impossible to describe 
the effect which the blending of so many voices produces. 
And then the great organ, which sets high up near the top 
of the great amphitheater, is one of the largest organs in 
the world. Its intonations sound deep, like the rumbling 
of distant thunder. There are a great many departments 
of great interest connected with Crystal Palace, the partic- 
ulars of which I have not space enough to describe. I 
would advise all tourists to pay a visit to the Palace before 
leaving England. 

Surrey Music Hall is famous for its having been first 
devoted to the Muses. Afterwards its ample room and vast 



And jSIokning of Ukcovery. 12j 



ranges of scats were filled by thousands of persons on the 
Lord's da}', drawn thither by the magnetic power of the 
gospel of Christ preached b}- Mr. C. H. S[)urgeon. It is 
now used, I believe, for a hospital for the sick. 

The British Museum is a famous place of amusement. 
It was founded b}' Sir Hans Sloane, a native of Ireland, but 
of Scottish descent. He collected a number of curiosities 
during his lifetime, and at his death made in his will pro- 
vision to offer them to the British government for £^0,000, 
which was about one-half of its real value. One amona- 
the man}' interesting things contained within tlie British 
Museum is the king's library, in addition to the na- 
tional library. The galler}' of antiquities, with the depart- 
ments of natural history, book and manuscript. There are 
also within the same building mineralogical, ornithological, 
zoological, and botanical departments. The Museum is 
open to the public on Monday, Wednesda}', and Friday of 
each week from 10 o'clock, a. m., to 4 p. m. The greatest 
number of visitors in one day was 42,000; the greatest 
number in one 3'ear was that of 185], which reached the 
enormous number of 2,527,216. Multitudes flocked to 
the Cr^'stal Palace to see the World's Fair that 3'ear, which 
accounts for the unprecedented number visiting the Mu- 
seum. The apartment which contains the king's library 
is three hundred feet long and forty feet wide, Avith inlaid 
floors. Another very interesting feature is the readins: 
room, surrounded on all four sides b}' galleries for the 
books, and lighted from the top. The British Museum is 
surmounted bv a dome measuring over one hundred feet 
fiom the last floor to its top. The shelves are made partl}^ 
of metal, and would make twenty-five miles in length. The 
principal librarian is the chief officer of the Museum. It 
is divided into eight departments, each of which is under 



126 The Night of Affliction 



a special officer called a keeper, y»itli a number of assistants, 
whose business it is to go through their resi)cctive depait- 
ments with visitors and explain the many things that are 
on exhibition. The library of the British Museum con- 
tains more than 600,000 volumes, and additions are made 
to its numbers eveiy year. 

There are a great many curiosities to be seen in tiie 
British Museum which I cannot attempt to sijeak of, such 
as animals and birds (stuffed) of every clime ; grooved 
brain stone; music coral, coral reef from the Pacific ocean, 
beautiful coral, like tops of trees, from Singapore, India 
rope coral from Japan, coral in the form of a hand; and 
sea flowers; specimens of hand-writing of Hannah Moore, 
John Wesley (1787), Elizabeth Fry, Thomas Moore, James 
Gallary (1798), Edward Irving, Caesar Borgia (1499), 
George Washington, William Pitt, Benjamin Franklin, and 
Martin Luther; note book of John Locke; book of prayers 
used by Lady Jane Gray on the scaffold, with notes in her 
hand-writing; book of prayers used by Queen Elizabeth, 
when a princess, in 1545 ; Hebrew roll of the Pentateuch 
written on African goat skins in the fourteenth century, 

etc. etc. 

The National Picture Gallery contains paintings of great 
value by celebrated artists. Among the more noticeable 
paintings I jotted down in my note book were, "The In- 
fant Christ," painted in 1505; landscape with Abraham 
and Isaac; "Embarkation of the Queen of Sheba," painted 
in 1600; "View of Venice;" "Dido building Carthage;" 
"Christ driving the money changers out of the temple;" 
" Marriage of Isaac and Rebecca ;" and " Destruction of 
vSodom," with a great many other subjects of rare beauty 
and value. 

The Indian Museum contains some of the most ancient 



And Morning of Recovery. 127 



specimens of past ages, such as emblems of royalty, ancient 
tent cloth, Mohammedan temple, idol figures, " Marriage 
Procession of a native Rajah," and ancient musical instru- 
ments, etc. 

Madam Tusaud's celebrated wax gallery contains life-size 
figures of all the celebrities of past ages and present time. 

St. Paul's Cathedral stands on Ludgate hill. The first 
stone was laid b}^ Sir Christopher Wren in 1675, and com- 
pleted b}' him, after his own design, in 1710. Its height 
from the pavement to the top cross is 370 feet; its length 
from east to west is 510; width 250 feet; its circuit is 
2292 feet. B3' an inside stair-wa}-- access is gained to a 
circular galler^^ within the dome, called " the whispering 
galler}' ;" from thence to the stone gallery-, and further on 
to the golden gallery; from this position much of the sur- 
rounding cit}^ may be seen in clear weather. Above this 
galler}^ are the ball and cross. The ball is six feet in 
diameter, and is large enough to hold eight persons. The 
incumbent of this cathedral ranks next after archbishops, 
and enjo^^s an income of £10,000, or $50,000, a year. 

Westminster Abbey. The first stone was laid by Henry 
III., in 1221. The larger portion of this ancient structure 
as it now stands was built by Henry III. It was com- 
pleted some time about the year 1245. The length of the 
Abbey is 383 feet; the breadth is 203 feet; the height of 
the towers are 225 feet. 

Henry the VII.'s Chapel is a magnificent specimen of the 
architecture of his time. It was commenced by him as a 
burial place for the ro3'al family. Services are held dail^-, 
and on Sundays the service is well attended. 

I visited the village of Hampton in June, 1868. Hamp- 
ton is situated in Middlesex Count}', on the river Thames, 
about eleven miles W. S. W. of London. Its surroundings 



128 The Night of Afflictiox 



are very beautiful; its gardens aud palace were once the 
most handsome, probably, of any place in England. Hamp- 
ton Court was the favorite residence of many of the Eng- 
lish sovereigns. This Court was originally built by Car- 
dinal Wolsey for an abode of royalty, and every thing 
connected with the palace was of course made to correspond 
with the dignity and position of its royal occupants. The 
art gallery in Hampton Court contains a large and valuable 
collection of pictures, many of which are portraits of men 
who figured largely, and some of them notoriously, in Eng- 
lish History. There are also a collection of pictures among 
them, representing some of the most important incidents in 
the New Testament. The following are some of the prin- 
cipal monarchs who made their residence at Hampton 
Court:— Henry VIII., Edward VI., James I., and his son 
Charles I., Cromwell, Queen Anna, and George II. The 
place is now open to the public free of charge. Many ex- 
cursions from the great city of London during the summer 
months are made to Hampton. 

Having received several very pressing requests for my 
service in America as soon as my studies w^ere finished, I 
had already made up my mind to return to the fields gf 
labor wdiich were already white to harvest. 

The following letters from Rev. R. De Baptiste were very 
cheering to me, as good news from home to one in foreign 
lands is always acceptable : 

224 Fourth Avenue, Chicago 111 , U. S. A. 

January 29th, 1SG8. 
Rev. J. H. Magee: 

Dear Brother:— I have just received your kind letter 
of the 14th ult, through the kindness of brother W. W. 
Stewart, of Windsor. I also received the one you wrote to 
me some time before that one. Both of these letters gave 



And Moknixg of Recovkrv. 120 



much pleasure. I was more than ghid to hear from yon. 
Brother Graves, whom I had the pleasure of meeting at the 
annual meeting of the Wood River Association at Alton, in 
September last, informed me of your arrival in England, he 
having met you, he said, before his departure for home. 

I am highly delighted to hear of your success in England, 
both in the pursuit of jour studies, which I suppose to be 
the principal object of 3'our visit and sojourn there, and also 
in that attending the proclamation of the gospel of our Lord 
Jesus Christ by 3'ou in that far otf land. I do not suppose 
it will ever be my privilege to visit that country, therefore I 
take great pleasure in reading 3'our descriptions of its peo- 
ple and customs, and especialh' of religious and educational 
matters. 

A Mr. Huzze}', (if I do not forget the name) showed me 
a letter from jou of introduction to myself. He has settled 
in our state. I met him at Elgin, whither I went to preach 
and administer the ordinance of baptism for a little church 
which I oroauized there about a vear ago. I also met and 
made the acquaintance of two other genial Christian breth- 
ren from England who have settled in that town, the broth- 
ers Meirling, who, I think, came from Coventrv. Our work 
over this side of the Atlantic is a gigantic one, and we 
have great need of zealous, self-denj-ing Christions to enter 
upon and prosecute this work in the Spirit of their Master. 
My brother, I shall hail 3'our return to 3'our native land 
with joy. We need 3'ou now, we can s})are you onl3' to fin- 
ish that course of necessar3' preparation which will doubt- 
less add efficiency to 3'our ministr3\ 

We have very nearly completed our new house of wor 
ship; I think it a neat, pleasant, and substantial place of 
worship. We had the pleasure of shaking the liand of 
that popular English preacher, Rev. Newman Hall, in our 



130 The Night of Affliction 

Louse during his visit to the United ^States of America, aiid 
of hearing a discourse from his traveling companion, the 
Rev. Mr. Balgarner, also at our church. 

We had a very pleasant meeting of the colored Baptists 
in convention at Nashville in August last. There was a 
large delegation present from the south, and many attended 
from all parts of the United States. Most of our ablest 
ministers were there, and all felt that our work was no un- 
important one in connection with the evangelization and 
elevation of our long down-trodden and still oppressed and 
despised brethren — the freedmen of the south. I had the 
honor conferred on me of being chosen President of the 
convention for the year. We meet again on the Thursday 
before the third Lord's day in August, 1868, at Savanah, 
Georgia. I wish 3'ou could attend that meeting. Our cor- 
responding secretaiy is the Rev. Rufus L. Periy, editor of 
"The National Monitor," Brooklyn, New York. 

We have established several new churches in our state 
during the last 3'ear. Brother Graves is laboring with the 
church at Galesburgh, Illinois. Brother Wm. P. Brooks 
was installed pastor of the Chambers street Baptist Church, 
St. Louis, Missouri, a few Sabbaths ago. It was formerly 
the third church, but changing its location and name, it 
united with a mission church which had been established 
at the latter place, and obtained a good meeting house, and 
a large congregation thereby. It is now a very promising 
church. I have just learned of the death of old father An- 
derson; he died a few days ago, so I am informed. He 
has ceased from his labors, and is doubtless at rest in the 
"place prepared for (him),'' for " there remains a rest for 
the people of God." What a work he has done in the vine- 
yard of the Lord! And how well he has done it, consider- 
ing his opportunities ! Think you that 3'ou or I shall live 



And Morning of Recovery. 131 

to preach Christ till we are past our fourscore? Who would 
presume so much ? 

I would like to eujo}' the privilege with you next Sab- 
bath of sitting" in the great tabernacle and hearing that 
woudei'ful man of whom I have heard and read so much — 
Chas. H. Spurgeon. Your mau}^ friends here send their 
kind regards to vou. 

Our city was visited with a most terrific and destructive 
fire last night. Our large wholesale dry goods houses and 
other wholesale dealers on the corner of Lake street, Wa- 
bash avenue, and Lake street and jMichigan avenue, and 
thi'ough those blocks were destro3^ed to the amount of 
nearly three millions of dollars. 

Let me hear from you again soon. My wife joins me in 

kind regards to 3'ou. 

I am, ver}' truly yours in Christ, 

R. De Baptiste. 

224 Fourth Avenue, Chicago, June 10, 1868. 

My dear Brother Magee : 

I received your letter of March 31st, mailed April 6th, in 
about fifteen daj^s after date. I need not tell 3'ou that it 
gave me at the same time both pain and pleasure. 

A pleasure it was to me to hear from 3'ou, and to know 
that 3'ou had been cared for bv such warm hearted and 
manifestly Christian people. But I was pained to hear of 
your illness, and the suftering arising therefrom. 

Under our Father s control afflictions ha\e their profit, 
the hand that smites will defend, the power that wounds 
will bind up and heal. Ma3^ you and 1 ever su])mit, know 
ing "it is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good." 
1 have received several favors from you, as the copy of the 
"Sword and Trowel," pamphlets, sermons, etc , for which 



132 The Night of Affliction 



I thank 3011. I forwarded to you some papers containing an 
account of the dedication of our house of worship, also a 
letter in an envelope with one from brother Mukish. I 
am not aware that you received either the letter or the 
papers; if you did please let me know. 

We had a very interesting meeting at the opening of our 
audience room. The opening sermon was preached by 
Rev. W. W. Everts, D. D., pastor of the First Baptist church 
of this city. The sermon was a good one, and produced 
an excellent effect. 

I received a letter from brother Mukish a few days ago, 
in which he made inquiries about you, as to whether I had 
heard from you, etc. I hope 3-ou are again restored to 
health, and able to pursue your studies again. Brother 
W. W. Stewart is soon to leave Windsor for this state, 
which I hope will prove true as I heard it. We need his 
labors in this state. I wish vou could attend the meetino" 
of the consolidated convention at Savanah, which meets on 
Thursday before the third Lord's day in August. 

Let me hear from vou at vour earliest convenience. 

I am, very truly j^ours, 

R. De Baptiste. 

In the latter part of May, 1868, I received a letter from 
my dear mother, the contents of which gave me great joy 
on account of ni}' great love for her and my long absence 
from home. It seemed to me that I must go home, for 
my mind could not be at I'cst after hearing from m^- mother. 
Now I can well understand why it was that my mind was 
so much impressed lo return home at once, for my mother 
was destined soon to quit this world. 

Shipman, 111., April 21st, 1868. 

My Dear Son Henry: — I i-eceived your kind letter and 
was glad to hear from you, but sorry to hcai- of vour afflic- 



And Morning of KtcovKin'. 133 



tion. I am in hopes that you will recover and be able to 
reach home once more. Put your trust in the Lord, He is 
able to take care of vou. I am sorry vou llioui^ht vou 
were so ":reatlv ne^irlected. 1 would have written bel'ore 
this time, but the boys had writ en, and I thought they 
wrote what was necessary. Henry, it' y<»u will forgive me 
1 will not neglect you so long again. I expect that you 
felt very badly during 3'our sickness, thinking you were so 
far away from your people. I went dail}' with a sorrowful 
heart to think 3'ou were so far away that I could not be 
with you to assist you. I was in dread to Iiear again from 
you, fearing that you might have left this world. You 
must put your trust in the Lord ; He is able to do all things. 

I must tell you a little about m3- health. I huve not felt 
so well for a long time as I have been for the last nine 
months. I have not lost a daj-'s work the past winter. I 
gave Cyrus a very fine Christmas dinner; we missed you 
xevy much from the crowd. The protracted meeting at 
New Garden church resulted in great good to man}'. Leo- 
nard professed a hope in Christ. * * * * 

Now, Henr}', I must tell you something about m}' own 
self. I have been reclaimed and returned home to the 
house of the Lord. I was welcomed into the house of the 
Lord with great rejoicing. Henry, you do not know what 
a happ}' time it was when my children came and gave me 
the right hand of fellowship into the church. The joy 
was better felt than told. Henry, let not your heart be 
troubled; be ye of good cheer. I thank God I have gained 
the day. The Lord is on my side, He is my protector. * 

Cyrus and Youreth hold family prayer night and morn- 
ing. What a happy change we have had in our familv. 
Henry, 1 hope, if in this world we meet no more, we will 
meet where there is no parting an\- more. Henry, I hope 



134 The Night of Affliction 



3^011 will rest contented the rest of yonr daj-s, and whenever 
you feel iow-spirited take this letter and read it. Henry, 
I hope 3^011 will rest satisfied, for I feel that I am on the 
right side of Christ, and will be the rest of m}^ days. Hen- 
ry, I have a great many good friends in Shipman for whom 
I thank God. Your second letter was read b}^ a great 
man}' citizens of Shipman, besides many others, who said 
that if you ever returned home, that they wanted 3'ou to 
preach to them. 

I hope, when we hear from you again, 3'ou will be better. 
I remain, 3'ou affection mother, Susan Maqee. 

I read and re-read the above letter many times before I 
re-crossed the great waters. Every lime tliat m^- thoughts 
were turned to the dear ones at home a sorrowful feeling 
would come over my mind, as though some one had told 
me that I would never see m^^ mother again alive in this 
world. My forbodings were well founded. 

I began to make earnest preparations to return to Amer- 
ica ; meanwhile making such additions to my library as I 
was sure that I could not make in America. Mr. Spurgeon, 
by the kindness of Mr. Blackshaw, gave me a fine collec- 
tion of books of the Puritan period, viz: Sibb's Works, 
Goodwin's Works, Clarkson's Practical Works ; and some 
of his, own sermons. I regard this presentation as among 
the best collection of books I have made. Many were the 
pra3'ers which followed me across the Atlantic fiom devout 
christian hearts The following notes are given as ex- 
pressing the feelings of my many friends when I left 
England: 

1 Alpha Cottages, Camberwell, July IG, 1868. 

My Dear Sir: — I had greatly wished for the pleasure of 
a visit from vou one day before you left England, but T am 



And Morning of Re overy. 135 



afraid I must now be disnppointed as to this, as according 
to the arrangement of the office I am in I leave town on 
Saturday for my summer holiday, and shall not return 
until after j'ou have left. 

I am still more disappointed at being prevented, by an 
important business engagement, from seeing you this even- 
ing to sa}' good bye, as I had hoped. I feel much intlebted 
to 3^ou for 3-our excellent portrait, and in return beg your 
acceptance of the enclosed photographs of my wife and 
m3^self, which were taken about the time when you first 
knew us. My wife will hand 3'ou this note; she joins heart- 
11}^ with me in regret at 3-our leaving, as well as in best 
wishes for 3'our pleasant and safe journe3^ across the water, 
where we trust 3'ou ma3' long be spared in the enjovment 
of good health. I need hardl3' add that one line assuring 
us of 3'our safe arrival would afford us much pleasure. 

And now heartil3^ wishing you God speed, believe me, 
m3^ dear sir, ver3^ faithfully 3'ours, 

W. Russell. 

10 Penton Place, Newington, July 22, 1868. 

Dear Brother Magee: — I am right glad of an oppor- 
tuuit3' of bearing m3^ testimon3- to your consistent chris- 
tian conduct during the time 3'ou have been with us at the 
Tabernacle. Your visits to the 3'oung men's catechumen 
class were always acceptable, and I am sure thev woukl 
gladl3^ join me in happ3' remembrance of 3'ou, and in wish- 
ing you a piosperous voA'age homo, a most happy reception 
b3' 3^our own people, and 3'ears of usefulness in the cause 
of our Redeemer. That God ma3^ bless 3^ou, dear brother, 
and cause the light of his countenance to shine upon you 
and do you uood ; and Ihnt should we r.ot nicct aiiaiii in 



136 The Night of Affliction 

this life, that we may do so at the right hand of Him whom 
we both love, the Lord Jesus, is the prayer of yours, 

Affectionately^ 

W. BowKEK, Elder. 

London, July 20th, 1868. 
Dear Sir: — It is now more than a year since I made 
your acquaintance, when you came to reside in England 
for the purpose of pursuing your studies. I can now truly 
say you have gained in 1113^ sincere esteem because of 
your irreproachable conduct and many amiable qualities, 
but above all other reasons for vour love of the truth as it 
is in Jesus Christ, which has lifted you above party preju- 
dices. I have a good hope, tiierefore, you Avill continue to 
make progress in further knowledge of God's purposes in 
the church in these last ages, as He may be })leased to give 
you opportunity to get instruction in the knowledge of His 
will. Faithfully ^-ours, 

S. F. Joseph, Evangelist, South wark. 

Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, July 13, 1868. 

Mr. J. H. Magee has been for some time in our College, 
and leaves us with the respect of both tutors and students. 
His sickness cut short his time, as study was too much for 
him while suffering so much ! Otherwise, by his diligence, 
he would have achieved a fair proficiency in education. I 
commend him to the brethren among whom lie may dwell. 

C. H. Spurgeon, 

President. 

I have Mr. Spurgeon's letter as above, framed and hung 
up in my study. 

On the 23rd of July, 186^, 1 sailed from Livei-pool on 
board of the beautiful and commodious steamer Peruvian 



And MouxiNu oi* IvEcoveky. 137 



'I'he weather was veiy I'avoi'uble during" the entire voyage — 
the sea at times being as smooth as " a sea of glass," with 
searcely a ripple upon the faee of its quiet waters. In ten 
days from the time I left Liverpool I landed in Toronto, 
Canada, August 2nd, 1868, and found myself in m3' adopted 
home again. On Saturday, the 15th of August, about ten 
o'clock in the moruino- a bov came to my boardini*- house 
with a dispatch. I broke the seal and read in breathless 
silence these solemn and painful words : " Come immedi- 
ately, mother is at the point of death." Signed, A S. Ma- 
gee. I could not have felt worse at that moment if that 
dispatch had born a message to summons me awa^^ to the 
bar of God. I collected my things together as soon as 
possible and started home by the first train, but owing to 
the delay of the train, I had to lay by over the Sabbath in 
Detroit. That Sunday was a long and sorrowful day — the 
anxiety, the pressing errand on which I had started, all 
tended to weigh my spirit down under insufferable melan- 
choh\ 

I arrived at home on Tuesda}' morning at nine o'clock, and 
found my brother in waiting at the depot ; we went imme- 
diatel}^ to see our dying mother, who lived at a distance of 
two and one half miles from Shipman. She departed this 
life at eleven o'clock on the morning of my arrival. The 
saddest feature of this saddest of all afHictions was, that 
my dear mother was so far gone that she could not speak 
to me. Oh, if I could only have heard her pronounce m}' 
name just once, it would have been gratifying to my 
wounded and troubled heart to know that my dear mother 
had recoo-nized her son in whom she so much deliohted. 
She died in the full triumphs of a living faith. She told 
the family on Sunday that she would not be here when I 
come home. Her testimony was to the effect tliat she was 
12 



138 The Night of Aifliction 



ready and willing to go. She said: " IMy way is cleai', and 
heayen is my yiew." "Oli, glory halleliijali." "I shall 
soon be there." " I want 3011 all to meet me in heayen." 
8he desired that 1 should assist Key. W. W. Stewart in 
preaching the funeral sermon, which took place the third 
Lord's day in September, 1868. Elders John Liyingstone 
and Jesse Lee officiated at her burial on Thursday, the 
20tli of August. Her remains were interred in tlie Piasa 
Baptist Church Cemetery, where the^^ peacefully sleep 
until the morning of general resurrection, when m}- mother 
will awake at the sound of the fikst trumpet. Elder 
Stewart took for his text for her funeral sermon, " The last 
enemy that shall be destroyed is death." 1. Cor. xy. 26. 

I closed the seryices b}' transposing " Sister, thou wast 
li.ld and loyely," to read-^ 

"Motlier, thou wast mild und lovely, 

Gentle as the .^^unmier's breeze, 
Pleasant as the air of evening, 

When it tlouts among the trees. 

'' Peaceful be th}' silent slumber, 

Peaceful in tliy grave so low, 
Thou no more wilt join our number. 

Thou no more our songs shalt know. 

" Dearest mother, thou liast left us, 

Here they loss we deeply feel. 
But 'tis God tliat hath bereft us. 

He can all our sorrows heal. 

" Yet again we hope to meet thee, 

When the day of life is fled, 
Then in heaven with joy to greet thee. 

Where no farewell tears are shed." 

Yes, dearest mother, I hope to meet thee where we shall 
recount the labors and triumphs of this life in the presence 
of God the Redeemer and the holy angels. For a while I 



And Morning of Recovery. 139 



will now say farewell, clearest mother, until the mornins", 
then I shall look for you in the general assemble and church 
of the first born in heaven. 

In the death of ni}^ mother I sustained mj^ greatest loss 
in the world. There are few persons who can appreciate 
the real worth of a good mother. Let me say to all who 
are blessed with such a mother as I had, be sure that you 
esteem her far above every thing else of an earthly- character. 
I think that there are few sons who love their mother as 
well as I loved mine. Most all m^'^ anxiet}^ when absent 
from home was a deep concern for my dear mother. The 
following is the last letter that m^^ mother wrote while in 
this world. I received it after her death, it having been 
forwarded to me from England to Toronto, Canada. 

SiiiPMAN, July lt5h, 1868. 
Elder J. H. Magee: 

Dear Son : — It is with much pleasure that I avail mj-- 
self of this opportunit}^ of penning 3'ou a few lines. This 
leaves us all in the enjoyment of good health, aud 1 sin- 
cerely hope it may find you enjo3'ing a like favor. Your 
very welcome letter of the 23rd ultimo, has been received, 
and its contents noted. We all were very happy to hear from 
3'ou indeed. Especially so to hear that you are almost 
well. Oh ! how thankful we should be to the Lord for his 
loving kindness to us. Henr^^, I do thank God that he has 
raised you again, as it seemed, from death's door. Henr}', 
I hope that me shall meet again on earth; if we are not 
permitted to meet again here, I have a hope that we shall 
n:^eet in heaven, where parting will be no more, and where 
sickness, pain, and death can never enter. I am happy 
to hear that you feel to put your trust in the Lord; he is 
able to comfort us in all of our distresses. * * * 



140 The Night of Affliction 

Henry, I feel thankful that you liave so many friends. 
Oh! how thankful 30U ought to be for that great blessing! 
Have you any idea when you will be home? I would like 
very much to see you. You must come as soon as 3'ou 

can. You will please find m}- picture inclosed with this 
letter. Henrj-, I hope this letter may find you compara- 
tively well. Keep in good spirits and get through with 
your studies as soon as 3^ou can, and come home. I think 
of no more at present to write. 

I still remain your affectionate mother, 

Susan Magee. 

The above was probably the last letter that my mother 
wrote to any one previous to her death. How strange the 
coucidence of the date of this letter bearing good tidings, 
and the date a month hence, (the 15th of August) of a 
telegraph dispatch that my mother was at the point of 
death. Such is life. It is uncertain. Oh, may we all 
prepare for a home in heaven. To be with Christ is far 
better. I shall see my mother in that bright world of end- 
less day. Jesus says: "I go to prepare a place for you. 
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come 
ao-ain and receive you unto myself, that where I am there 
ye ma}^ be also!" 



And Morning of Recovery. 141 

CHAPTER XII. 

THE HAND OF THE LOKD- 

Professor in a BaptistCoUege— Education— White Li<iiits— Lincoln 
—My Marriao:e— Removal to tlie West--Alton Colored Public 
School— Baptist Church in Alton, Illinois— CuUeO to the Union 
Baptist Church of Cincinnati, Oiiio— A Hearty Welcome—The 
Lord's Work— Great Revival— Texts of my First Sermons in 
Cincinnati — Inaug-uration Su])ject— Times of Relreshing— 
Pastor's First Annual Report— What the Cliurch lias Done-- 
Her Livint? History— Pastor's Second Annual Report— Great 
Out-Pouring of the Holy Spirit— Testimonial— Union Baptist 
Church Sunday School— Its History, etc.— Churches— Testi 
monials— A Visit to Louisville, Ky. 

In the month of October, 18G8, through the kindness of 
Mr. J. J. Carv, I received an invitation from Rev. N. G. 
Merr}', pastor of the First Baptist Church, Nashville, Ten- 
nesee, to come immediately to take a position as Princi[)al 
of the Baptist College of Nashville; Rev. D. W. Phillips, an 
estimable and cultivated gentlemen, being Principal of the 
theological department for the training of 'young men for 
the ministry. I went to this new field of labor as soon as 
I could return to Canada and adjust my relations as pastor 
of the Queen Street Baptist Church for such time as I might 
be absent from them ; for I yet knew not how I might like 
this new spliere of labor, but I thought I would go and see. 
and perhaps make such arrangements as might be satis- 
factory to all concerned. I found the school in a prosper- 
ous condition, but suffering from the want of more teachers. 
I went immediately to work in the midst of an increasing 
attendance of pupils, until it was found necessary to open 
a primary department for the accommodation of pupils less 
advanced in their studies. Mrs. Fitzgerald was put at the 
head of the pjrimar^' department. 

What our people most need is mental and moral training, 



142 The Night of Affliction 

so that preachers and teachers may take positions as the 
leaders among our o vn people. None can so effectually do 
this as the peoi)le who understand their own needs, and can 
sympathize with the deficiencies of their suffering brethren. 
Therefore let us educate, educate, educate, until our peo- 
ple can take the hehn and thus guide the ship of destiny 
among our own people, until we shall have reached that 
true eminence to. which all true greatness tends — the moral 
and intellectual development of true manhood and woman- 
hood. IMau}' have come to our assistance from the ranks 
of our white brethren, for which I thank God. They are 
yet laboring in self-sacrifice, and that of their own homes 
and firesides, in order to help their colored brethren on the 
road to the light of trutli. We shall l)e the last to forget, 
while memory holds its place, the noble deeds and heroic 
devotion to the right when it was dangerous to be con- 
sidered the friend of the black man. Such philanthropist 
as Wendall Phillips, Wm. Llo^'d Garrison, John Brown, 
Owen Lovejoy^ Henry Ward Beecher, Harriet Beecher Stowe 
and a host of others, who have not bowed their knee to the 
Baal of slavery, nor to its shadow — prejudice. I want to 
add another name to the grand galaxy of liberty-loving 
heroes and heroines, so that their lustre may shine yet 
more resplendent with the light of liberty and justice. I 
refer to Abraham Lincoln, whose deeds in the cause of 
human freedom will live throuohout all comino- time. 

Abraham Lincoln, president of the republic and com- 
mander-in-chief of the armies of the union, proclaimed 
freedom to all of our race within the limits of our country. 
It was the grandest act of his grand administration. It 
will send his name down " to the last syllable of recorded 
time." He will be known in future ages as the Great 
Emancipator, who gave freedom to four millions of mortal 



And jMoiimng of Recovkky. 143 



heiugs. Borrowing- the laiigiiage of a distingiiislie 1 Amer- 
ioiiii i^-tatesmaii with rcfei-ein'e to George Waslihi^lon, it may 
1)0 titl3' said of Abralitmi Lincoln: '' Ihe ie[Uil)lic may 
l^erish ; the wide aivh of our raugnl union may fall, star l»y 
star its glories may expire, stone after stone of its lolumns 
and its capitol ma}' moulder and crumble, all u.Ium- name.i 
that adorn its annals may be forgotten, but as lono- as 
Luinan hearts shall feel and human tongues shall speak, 
those hearts shall enshrine the memory and those tongues 
shall proclaim the fame of" Abraham Lincoln! 

On the 31st day of December, 18G8, I was united in 
maiTiage with Miss 31ary E Armsby, of St. Louis, Mis- 
souri, by Rev. Wm. P. Brooks, pastor of Chambers Street 
Baptist Church of St. Louis, Missouri. I often now sj)eak 
of my wife as being a New Year's Gifi. 

I continued to teach in the College at Nashville until the 
close of the school year in June, 18G9, when my health 
failing, and my wife's health also being very poor in that 
section of country, I thought it best to remove out west to 
Alton, Illinois, ^vhere I obtained a situation as teacher of 
the Alton colored public school. In this capacity I gave 
the whole of ni}' time for the first year. 

In the month of JNIarch of the second year after my arri- 
val in Alton, I was called to the pastorate of tlie Bai)tist 
Church of Alton, holding my position as teacher of the 
school and pastor of the church at one and the same time- 
AVitli reference to my success as a teacher, the scores of 
cliildren and youths who attended the school, will testily 
that their progress in their several studies was unprece 
dented. I made the reading of the Bible every morning a 
principal feature in opening the school, and then I would 
lead the children in ])rayer to almighty God, invoking his 
blessings and his guidance for the day. At the close of 



!-i' 



144 The Night of AirLicnoN 



the school each day, all the scholars would repeat the 
Lord's prayer after me, standing, after which they were 
dismissed. As the result of this manner of managing the 
children by prayer, sixteen of those children were brought 
to Christ, and were baptized into the fellowship of the 
Baptist church. My work in the school was necessarilly 
very onerous, because I had all grades of pupils within the 
same room, from the A, B, C class, up to a class in Latin 
and physical geograph}^ with intermediate studies. 

THE COLORED SCHOOL. 

Alton, June 29. 1870. 
Editors Alton Telegraph : 

I wish to say a word about the colored school of Alton, 
and its teacher. Rev. J. H. Magee. As is customary at 
the close of the school year, all the scholars assembled last 
evening in the Baptist church to receive their prizes. The 
church was densely crowded with both children and parents, 
and, although it was extrerael}^ warm, the cheerful eyes 
and smiling faces of the children told that they cared not 
less for the heat, but more for the presents. When all 
were in and seated, their good and faithful teacher arose 
and gave a brief history of his labors, and told how fast 
the children had learned the past year, remarking that, 
although hard, his labors had never been more pleasant; 
that some of the scholars had learned exceedingly fast. 
Some, commencing with their letters, could now read, write, 
and cipher with great aptness. All the scholars received 
prizes of some value, according to merit. The prizes con- 
sisted of pictures, with and without frames; boxes of note 
paper; pencils, sceneries, albums and Bibles. 

When all had secured prizes the teacher arose and stated 
that he had an additional prize, which he desired to give to 



y 



And Morning of Eecoyeky. 145 



the "best" girl in school. The gift was a beautiful little 
Morocco-bound Bible. And that the scholars mio-ht decide 
by vote who she should be. Accordingl}^ they named two 
good girls, but the vote decided that one of them was 
better than the other, hence the precious book became her 
lawful property. 

The prize question being ended, it was announced by 
the teacher that some one had prepared refreshments in 
the basement of the church, so that the parents could show 
how much tliey appreciated the good report of their cliil- 
dren by treating them to all the good things, which would 
be pleasing to their taste as well as charming to their eyes. 
The evening being oppressivel}- warm, each did his share 
in converting ice cream into sweet milk. Permit me to say 
right here, that of all the good — nay, ver^- good teachers 
that our school has had, none have given better satisfac- 
tion to the parents or taken more pains to do justice to the 
children than Mr. Magee. Being amply qualified for the 
position, and having the children well disciplined, it is to 
be hoped that the School Board will appoint him the next 
school 3'ear, to instruct the youthful mind of our race in 
this cit\'. And if there are many things which tend to 
make it a disagreeable task to teach our school, such as an 
ill-arranged and damp school room, we hope these things 
will not last, and that, ere long, the accommodations of our 
school room will at least be pleasant and agreeable. 

G. A. 

My father died in October, 1870, after a short illness^, of 
pneumonia. He was a member of New Garden Baptist 
Church. M}^ Father embraced Christianity in the year 1851. 
He was a good man, as his life work, in maintaining a large 
famil}^ after purchasing my mother and two children, well 
13 " \ 



146 The Night of Affliction 

attest. During his early life time he was enabled to ac- 
cumulate much of this world's goods, but during the last 
ten years of his life he lost all of his landed property 
through the perfidy of a pretended friend. Let me warn 
all who have real estate to beware of "land grabbers," 
who may offer loans of money to j^ou by securing a mort- 
gage on your premises, only to secure himself for a limited 
time, but with the real purpose of closing the mortgage 
at the expiration of the time given, and thus become sole 
possessor of the estate. 

I found my work gradually wearing me away, but with 
no outlook for the better until some time in November, 
1870, when I j-eceived an invitation to visit the Unior, 
Baptist Church of Cincinnati, Ohio. 

Cincinnati, Ohio, Nov. 29, 1870. 
Rev. J. H. Magee. 

Dear Brother : — At the last regular business meeting 
of the Union Baptist Church, held November 25th, I was 
instructed to address you this letter, and extend to you, in 
behalf of the church, a cordial invitation to make us a visit 
and preach for us during your stay. The expenses of the 
trip will be borne by the church. 

Hoping to receive a favorable repl}^ from you at an early 
date. Yours truly 

John H. Corbin, 

Church Clerk. 

On Thursday, December 29th, 1870, I started for Cincin- 
nati, to pay the Union Baptist Church a ministerial visit. 
Arriving at the Queen City on Friday morning at 6 o'clock, 
December 30th, I went to Mrs. Scott's boarding house on 
McCallister street, where I took breakfast. I sent word to 



And ]Moi;ning of Recovery. 147 



Elder R. W. S ott that I desired to see him. He came 
some time that morning, and directed me to Elder P. F. 
Fossett, on Race street, where I was kindly received b}' the 
famil}^, brother and sister Fossett, who made . me very 
comfortable indeed. Arrangements having been previously 
made by brother F. Lewis for me to stop with him, there- 
fore brother Thomas Webb accompanied me to his 
house. He and sister Lewis made me welcome, and enter- 
tained me very comfortably. I found all the brethren and 
sisters ver}' glad to see me, for they had been long praying 
that God would send them a minister, and they hailed mj^ 
coming as the evident token of an answer to their many 
fervent prayers. 

Saturday night following my arrival being watch-meet- 
ing, I was invited to be present and preach for them. The 
Lord helped me wonderfully to preach from this text: " O 
Lord, I have heard th}' speech, and was afraid. Lord 
revive thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of 
the years make known ; in wrath remember mere}'." Ha- 
bakkuk iii. 2. The next morning being New-Year's day, 
1871, the members and congregation turned out very largely. 
I went quite early to the Sunday school, where I met and 
was introduced to Rev. Joseph Emery, the superintendent. 
I was very much pleased with the Sunday school, and the 
manner in which it was conducted. I was invited to ad- 
dress the school, which I did in the midst of marked atten- 
tion by teachers and scholars. After the Sunday school 
was dismissed, I went up stairs into the main audience 
room, and took a seat near the stove. Soon after there 
came in an old gentleman, who came up to me and said, 
" How do you do, brother Magee ? " He said he knew who 
I was, for he had been praying for the Lord to send them 
a minister, and that he had seen me in a vision or dream 



148 The Night of Affliction 



before I came to tlie eit^'. In his own words he said, 
" Bless the Father! I knew him just as soon as I saw him, 
and I said to m^yself, that is brother Magee, for lie looks 
just like the man I saw in my vision." 

On Sunday morning at 11 o'clock, I preached from the 
words of Jesus, John ix. 4: "I must work the works of 
Him that sent me while it is day; the night comctli when 
no man can work." The Lord wonderfully helped me in 
the deliveiy of the sermon, and He owned and blessed the 
word to the hearers. In the evening I preached about the 
year of jubilee. Monday morning I returned to Alton, 
Illinois. On the last Frida}^ in January, the 27th, 1871, 
the church extended an unanimous call for me to become 
their pastor, which, after due and prayerful consideration, 

1 accepted, and entered upon the duties of the pastorate 
on the 12tli of February, 1871. 

On the 19th of the same month I preached mj- inaugural 
sermon from the text, " For I determined not to know any- 
thing among you save Jesus Christ, and him crucified." 

2 Cor. ii. 2. The whole church and congregation, with 
the community at large, gave m.e a hearty welcome in their 
midst. God blessed our comino- with the seal of his own 
presence b}" an increased attendance upon all the services 
of the church, wdiich interest continues up to this dny. I 
can sa}'- with all fidelity that I have never found a better 
set of brethren and sisters as a church in all my travels. 
There is always enoiioh of the livins: to bury the dead. 
We held a meeting of some weeks which was greatly 
blessed in the conversion of souls, and the encouragement 
of believers. 

At the close of my first year's duties, I had the pleasure 
of presenting the following very gratifjdng account of 
what had been accomplished during that time. 



And Morning of Rkcovery. 149 



Pastor J. H. Magee's First Annual Report of the 
Union Baptist Church. 

Cincinnati, January 29, 1872. 
My Dear Brethren, Sisters, and Friends: 

It is my pleasant dut}' to present 3-011 with this mj first 
Annual Report of the work of the Lord in our midst during 
the past year. The times of refreshing from the presence 
of the Lord have dawned upon our church. There is a 
great awakening among us, a mighty shaking among dry 
bones. Everywhere are signs of aroused activit}^ and 
earnest zeal for God's glory and the salvation of sinners. 
A spirit of prayer has come to us in answer to the inward 
groans of His people. We tarried in faith and humble 
dependence upon God until we were indued with power 
from on high ; and far beyond our most sanguine expecta- 
tions we have been made the happy iccipientsof the divine 
favor. 

It has pleased the Lord, in answer to prayer agreeably 
to his own promise, to bring many to accept Jesus, the 
Savior of sinners. Among those who have professed a 
good hope, through faith in Jesus, are several young men 
and women who will be a power in this community in estab 
lishing a higher status of moral and christian greatness 
among the youth of this cit}'. The lamp of Christian faith 
and love is burning brightly in every heart of our entire 
membersliip. \Ye feel to repeat the words of the i)salmist, 
"O clap your hands, all 3'e people; shout unto God with 
the voice of triumph." God has given us a large and 
incrcasino- congregation to attend the preaching of the 
wor 1, whicli Ho has crowned with signal effect in the con- 
version of s ails. Duiing the i)ast yeai- thirty c-onverts 
followed oui- Lord in believer's baptism; received bv letter 



150 The Night of Affliction 

eight; under watch care nine; by relation three. There 
are awaiting the ordinance of baptism thirteen. 

We have an efficient and well-ordered Sabbath school, 
in which God is blessing- the word as it is tani>ht from 
Sabbath to Sabbath. Kev. Joseph Emer^' is the faith t id 
and earnest superintendent of the school, and has been for 
twenty-one years past. I bless God for giving us the 
labors of one so taithful and so full of good works. We 
have faithful men of God to help us as the standard bearers 
of the church, both in the deacon board and that of the 
trustees, all men of God whose entire S3'mpathies and 
labors are with and for the church. 

We have, in connection with the church, a Ladies' Church 
Aid Society, now one hundred strong, and it is only six 
months old. It is destined to do a oreat work for the 
cause of Christ and His kingdom. We have also a Church 
Visiting and Tract Committee, who are doing a good 
missionary work among that class of people who seldom 
attend any place of worship. The result has been a larger 
and more constant attendance at church. We are in the 
midst of a precious revival of religion, and are glad to say 
that general good-will prevails in behalf of the church and 
pastor. 

Brother John Corbin is our efficient secretary — one that 
prides himself in doing his work well and cheerfully; for 
whose services, in behalf of the church, I write in heart- 
felt commendation and thankfulness. 

Brethren and sisters, accept the love of one whose heart's 
desire and pra3'er to God for Israel is, that they might be 
saved. Yours, in the love of Jesus, 

J. H. Magee. 



And Morning op Recovery. 151 



Officers of the Church. 

Deacons. 
Stephen Irvine, John Lucas, 

Jackson Martin, . William Kealing, 

L. H. Harrod, H. H. Grandison, 

William Talton. 

Trustees. 
Thos. Skinner, Nathaniel Nathans, 

Thos. Clay, R. G. Ball, 

Daniel Keath. 

Our church is always ready to give of her means to sup- 
port the cause of Christ. They adopted the envelope 
system of contributing every Lord's day as the Lord has 
prospered them. I had the satisfaction of offering the plan, 
and the pleasure of seeing its practical bearing as developd 
by an increased amount contributed each Lord's day. The 
church owns a beautiful cemeteiy (all paid for) containing 
sixteen acres of land. This will in time afford a great 
revenue to the church. 

The Union Baptist Church has always been foremost in 
eveiy good w^ork. During the dark days of slaveiy, the 
doors, hearts, and purses of her members were always 
open to aid the escaping fugitive on his or her way to the 
land of the free. As a missionary church, she has few 
equals and no superior. She is the mother of most of 
the colored Baptist churches in the State of Ohio. Some 
time ago, Elder Charles Satchell went out under the aus- 
pices of this church to New Orleans, Louisiana, and there 
planted a flourishing church, known as the First Free 
Mission Baptist Church of New Orleans. Just before his 
death he was permitted te see erected, mainl}- through his 
energy, a fine commodious brick church edifice, which 



152 The Night of Afflictiox 



stands as a moniimciit to his energy and as a daughter of 
the Union Baptist Church oi" Cincinnati, Oliio. Besides 
the Free Mission Church, Elder Satchell organized a great 
many churches throughout the western part of Louisiana, 
which were gathered into an associate capacity numbering 
nearly twenty thousand members. 

Below you will find notice of other churches recentl}^ 
formed as branches from the Union Baptist Church. It 
is impossible in the short space allotted in this volume to 
give a complete history of the work of the Lord which 
this church has accomplished since its organization. Her 
history is written in the hearts of thousands who yet live 
to bless the name of Jesus through her instrumentality. 
Many are gone to their eternal home to be with Christ 
which is far better, who hailed from the church militant 
worshiping in the Union Baptist Church. 

Second Annual Report of Pastou J. H. Magee. 
Dear Brethren and Sisters: 

Through the abounding mercy of God, we are permitted 
to present our Second Annual Report of God's dealings with 
us as a church. 

The past year has been one of great blessing to us as a 
church, both in temporalities and spiritual things. On the 
first of January, 1872, we began the year in waiting upon 
God for a blessing. 

We continued in prayer amid some discouraging cir- 
cumstances, until God came in convicting and converting- 
power. We held meetings every evening except Saturday 
evening for nearly four months, daring which time scores 
were added to the church such as shall be saved. Among 
them were many who had hitherto resisted every means 
of grace oftVred them, and v^^ho passed through many 



And ^I*»iiMNa of RkuOVEUY. 1');] 

times of retVesliiiig from the presence of the Lord with 
out receivinii' the blessiiii>" of pardon. Durinii" our uieetinji's 
the house was densely packed every evening, and the slain 
of the Lord were manv. We have received into church 
membership during the past year one hundred and fifteen 
souls, sevent3^-uine of whom were received hy baptism. 
' The Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are 
glad.'' I feel like adopting the language of the Psalmist: 
"Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine 
enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup run- 
neth over. Surelv o'oodness and mercv shall follow me all 
the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the 
Lord forever.' 

God has given us a large and increasing congregation 
of attentive hearers. We have an efficient and well 
ordered Sabbath School, under the superintendency of Rev. 
Joseph Emery, who has been twent3"-two years in the good 
Avork with our Sundav School. Brother Emery is a faith- 
ful, zealous worker in the cause of Christ. May he live 
long to work for the Lord, and huraanit}^ amongst us. 
The Ladies Church Aid Societ}^ has become an institution 
of the church, and I trust that it may be as permanent as 
the church itself. It is calculated to do good service as a 
helper in the ckuse of Christ. We have a well organized 
" Church Visiting and Tract Committee," who are doing 
a good work in assisting the pastor and deacons in visiting 
the sick, and distributing tracts among the people ; the 
result of this committee has been a laro-er and more con- 
stant attendance at church. 

Our meeting house has been refitted and painted inside 
and outside, from basement to audience room. We have 
recently added another important stated meeting to our 
church — that of a Church Bible School, which meets 



154 The Night of Affliction 

once a week in the evening, for the purpose of reading the 
Scriptures, and hearing remarks on the same, closing with 
an essay by some one previously appointed to write on 
some of the doctrines of grace. These meetings are in- 
tensely interesting. Our church choir is among the best 
in the city, and is well supported by 3"oung ladies and 
gentlemen of the city. Mr. John H. Corbin is the efficient 
leader of our choir. Miss Elizabeth Corbin presides at 
the organ, morning and evening. She is very faithful in 
her attendance, and always prompt. Too much can not 
be said b}^ way of commendation of the regularity and 
efficiency of each member of the choir. As they have con- 
tributed so much to the interest of the worship of God by 
their sweet melody here, God grant that they may sing 
His praise forever in heaven. Whatever has been done in 
the cause of Christ, we wish all the glory given to God 
the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, suffi- 
cient for us is the " inheritance incorruptable and undefiled 
and that fadeth not awa}-, reserved in heaven for us." It 
is our pra3'er that greater good may be done in the future 
than has been done in the past, that God may use us as 
instruments in his hands in bringing many souls to Jesus. 
Amen, and Amen. 

J. H. MAGEE, Pastor. 

THOS. MONROE, Secretary. 

Present Officers of the Church. 

Deacons. 

Stephen Irvine, John Lucas, 

Jackson Martin, William Kealing, 

L. H. Harrod, H. H. Grandison, 

William Talton. 



And Morning of Eecovery. 155 



Trustees. 

~ Thos. Skinner, G. W. Hays, 

M. B. Hunt, Edgar Watson, 

George Harrison, John Hawkins, 

N. P. Oldham, Wm. Porter, 

Isaac Young. 

J. H. CORBIN, Chorister. 

MISS ELIZABETH CORBIN, Organist. 

F. LEWIS, Treasurer. 

" The Union Baptist Church was organized February 7th, 
1835, with about forty members. Elder David Nickins 
was the first pastor, who continued in this relation until 
his death— a term of two years. During his pastorate, a 
great revival occurred, and one hundred and twenty were 
added. Elder Charles Satchell succeeded for a term of 
eio-ht vears, and three hundred and forty were added. 
Elder Allen Graham then took the pastorate, and held it, 
with success, for about eighteen months. Elder Thulkill 
followed brother Graham, continuing six months, when he 
died. In 1850, Elder W. P. Newman took the pastorate, 
and after holding it two years he went to Canada. Elder 
Henry Adams, who has recently died at Louisville, took 
the pastorate in 1852, and continued, with great success, 
until 1854. He was succeeded by Elder Charles Campbell 
for a short time, when he died. The next pastor was Elder 
H. L. Simpson, who labored very successfully for three 
years. Elder H. H. White was next called, and continued 
three years. Elder W. P. Newman was then recalled, and 
continued to the time of his death, which transpired in 
1866. His success was very large. Elder H. L. Simpson 
was also recalled, and labored three years more. The 



156 The Night of Affliction 



church was then supplied by Elder D. W. Eaily for more 
than a year. 

"At this point in her history, February 11th, 1871, the 
present pastor. Rev. J. H. Magee, was called to the pastor- 
ate. His labors have been abundant, and one hundred and 
seventy -three accessions have already been made. Present 
membership four hundred and ninety-five. The Sunday 
school, under the superintendence of brother Joseph Emeiy, 
is very prosperous, averaging one hundred members, and 
revival influences are enjoj'cd at the present time. Their 
place of worship was removed some years since from Baker 
street to the corner of Mound and Richmond, where they 
have an excellent property." 

The Union Baptist Church and Congregation have been 
first in every benevolent work outside of her own imme 
diate calls. The Colored Orphan Asylum has siiared 
largely in her benevolence, as well as that of the Union 
Baptist Sunday School; the latter having made annual 
donations to the Asylum for many years. A gi-and union 
mass meeting, of all the colored churches in Cincinnati, 
met in Allen Temple on Sunday afternoon, May 18th, 1873, 
for the purpose of raising mone}^ to meet an out-standing 
debt of $1800 on the Orphanage. After brief addresses 
b}^ Revs. Joseph Emeiy, Thomas Webb, and others, 
the pastors of churches called upon their respective con- 
gregations to come up and lay their offering on the table. 
The call was responded to with a will and readiness seldom 
seen in this or anv other community. As is usual in such 
cases, the Union Baptist Church heads the list in her 
contributions. JMany 3'oung people not connected Avith 
any church deserve honorable mention for their liberality 
on this occasion. Union Baptist Ciiurch and Congrega 
tion contributed S102 59; Allen Clinpel, ,$74.80; Union 



And IMoKNiNG of Recoyeky. 157 



Cliapei, !f46.60; Harrison Street Church, $14.65; Plum 
Street Baptist Church, $4.00. 

The work done by the clitferent churches and congre- 
gations on this CYcr memorable occasion will ncYcr be 
forgotten. Its good effects will be seen during all coming 
time, " like bread cast upon the waters," it shall be found 
after man}- days. 

The beneficence of our church is unbounded. They 
liaYC shown their Ioyc and esteem to me in mauY tokens, 
which they haYC given in appreciation of mv services as 
their pastor. May the Lord continue to bless them, is the 
prayer of him who loves to serve them for Jesus sake. 

The Plum Street Church began its historj^ as a mission, 
July 31st, 1867, composed of the minister and but one 
other man. It continued as such until November, 1S71. 
The organization wa^ then effected, consisting of thirty- 
six members, thirty-seven having been added. 

From the outset to October 13th, 1872, there have been 
one hundred and fortj'-five accessions. The membership 
now numbers sixtv-three, and the Sundaj^-school fifty. 
The church occupy a rented house that is adequate to 
their present wants, and they enjo}' harmony and prosper- 
ity. Elder Thomas Webb has beeii their devoted pastor 
from their origin. 

The Cumminsville Church of Cumminsville was organ- 
ized August 21st, 1870, with eight members. The present 
pastor. Elder Peter F. Fossett, took charge of it Sep- 
tember 25th, same year. It has had a net increase of 
fort^^-two, and now numbers forty-seven. 

The church occupy a small rented room, but have pur- 
chased a lot and put in the basement of a house of wor- 
ship. 

The pastor preaches three times on Lord's day. Prayer- 



158 The Night of Afflk-tion 

meetino-s twice n week, and a SuDdav-seliool at two o'clock 
p. M., which was organized and carried on b}' the self-de- 
nvincr efforts of Mrs. M. L. Robinson, for manv years be- 
fore the church was organized. The school now numbers 
forty-seven scholars and five teachers. 

PRESENT ATIOX ADRESS to Rev. J. H. MAGEE, Pastor of 

Union Baptist Oiurch. 

By Thomas J. Monroe. 

My Dear Brother: 

It affords me extreme gratification to be here on this 
occasion, and to have the honor of being the representative 
of the committee and your con2:re2:ation. 

For more than a year, Reverend Sir, have j'ou been our 
pastor, and during that time we have often had the oppor- 
tunity to discover your merits, and to appreciate your 
faithful labors in the cause of Christ. By 3'our profound 
logical reasoning you have persuaded many to become 
good and true followers of our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
Christ. In looking around us we can not fail to see the 
intrinsic merit of your labor. To your untiring zeal and 
ability are we much indebted for the prosperity of our 
church. For more than a Acar have we enjo^'ed the bless 
ings of your religious intructions. 

Thus far the Lord hath led you on, 
Thus far his power prolongs your days ; 

And every evening shall make known 
Some fresh memorial of [lis grace. 

We might stand here for hours and expatiate with rap- 
ture on this delightful theme, but words are inadequate to 
express the deep feeling of gratitude we owe to 3'ou, as an 
instrument in the hand of God. \Ye invoke the gracious 
assistance of our Heavenly Father that you may continue 



And Morning of Recovery. 159 



to engage in and to discharge the veiy important duties 
imposed upon yon, as to meet the divine approval of our 
Master, and secure the greatest good to the church. We 
trust that 3'ou will, in the future as in the past, prove 
by a cordial and judious ministering to us, that the sacred 
trust reposed in 3'Ou is not misplaced. 

But, sir, we will al3stain from enlarging upon the many 
and eminent services vou have rendered to us, and to the 
cause of Christ. Flatter}' were as unbecoming to our- 
seh'es as we know it to be distasteful to 3'OU, and we do not 
flatter. We can but thank you, and are ever poor in 
thanks. We have therefore taken the liberty of presenting 
you with this tangible proof of our graditute and acknowl- 
edgment. May you accept it from us as a token of our 
love and friendship, of our esteem for you as a gentleman, 
and of our appreciation of your services as a brother and a 
faithful pastor. 

And now as 3'OU are our shepherd ma}' you alwa^-s emu- 
late the example of the great Shepherd, Christ. 

See the kind shepherd Jesus stands. 

And calls his sheep by name ; 
He gathers the feeble in his arms, 

And feeds each tender lamb. 

He leads them to the gentle streams 

Where living water flows; 
He guides them to the verdant fields 

AVhere sweetest herbage grows. 

When wandering from the peaceful fold, 

We Ipnve the narrow way ; 
Our faithlul Sliepherd still is near, 

To seek us when we stray. 

The weakest lamb amid the flock 
Shall be its Shepherd's care ; 



160 The Night of Affliction 



^^'llPn folihMl ill tlie Savior's arms, 
We're safe from every snare. 

And in conclusion, 1113' brother, 1 would remind 3'ou of 
the parting words of our Divine Master: " Without Me ye 
can do nothing." 'And added to this the glad response of 
the beloved Apostle Paul: "I can do all things through 
Christ, which strengthened me " 

Committee. 

Edgar Watson, Thomas J. Monroe, 

Thomas Skinner, William Watson, 

John Bennett, Jacob Elder, 

George W. Hays, Eugenie Johnson, 

Virginia Bentley, Sallie Cruett, 

Martha Hawkins. 

EDGAR WATSON, Chairman. 
Thomas J. Monroe, Secretary. 

The Presentation was made on Thursday evening. May 
16th, 1872. The present was an elegant dress suit. 

Presentation to Pastor J. II. Magee. 

February 27th, 1873. 
My Dear Brother: — Again I have this pleasant dutv to 
perform — the honor of presenting to you another memento 
of love and appreciation. Permit me, sir, as a representa- 
tive of INIessrs. Nathaniel Nathans, Samuel Lewis, and 
others, to offer yon this souvenir as an expression of our 
earnest appreciation of your services as a faithful pastor, 
and of our esteem for vou as a gentleman, as a friend, and 
as a brother. We can but recognize such devotion in your 
arduous duties. We cannot too highl}^ appreciate such 
high endowments, joined with so many personal, kindly 
traits; your frank, candid and joyous nature is sueh as to 



And Morning of Ivecoveky. 161 



endear you to all around vou. We reeo<>nizc in you one 
that is ever read}' to assist in the furtherance of an}- 
scheme to build up the material, intellectual, and spiritual 
welfare of the community in which 3'ou liye. Let us hope 
that in all your relations in life 3'ou may proye 3'ourself 
worth}^ of the esteem in which you are held. Accept this 
slight token of love, not as a reward, for the reward we 
are not able to give — it lies at the end of the race. We 
refer 3'ou to the promise of our dear Master: ''Be thou 
faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of 
life." And if you keep forever near unto His heart of 
love, 

" He'll smile upon 3'ou here below, 
And give you the reward above." 

To these remarks Pastor Magee made the following re- 
sponse : 

Dear Sirs: — It is with deep gratitude that I acknowl- 
edge your kind words, expressive of the sentiment of my 
church and congregation. And to you, my dear church 
and congregation, I tender you my sincere and heartfelt 
thanks for this, another tangible expression of apprecia- 
tion of my efforts to serve you, as 3'our pastor. Accept 
the reassurance of my constant and untiring endeavors in 
the future, as in the past, to preach the simple 3'et glorious 
Gospel of Christ in its purit}' and simplicity. It is ni}- 
aim at all times to try to edify, as well as to please, in 
my public ministrations among 3'Ou; and, above all, to set 
forth Jesus Christ in such a manner as to lead the uncon- 
verted into a savino- relation to Him through faith in the 
great atonement. Again accept the thanks of one whose 
life is gladly spent in God's service with 3'ou. 

The following letter from brother Corbin is hei'e intro- 
14 



1G2 The Night of Affliction 

diiced iis exhibiting the kindly christian feeling that marks 
the intercourse of pastor and congregation; 

Cincinnati, May 10, 1873 

During the past two j-ears there has been a stead}- in- 
crease of interest in the Union Baptist Church. The pas- 
tor. Elder J. H. Magee, has been active in eveiy good work, 
the members, in a good degree, partaking of his spirit, and 
thus much good has been accomplished. When Elder 
Magee came among us, the meetings of the church were 
slimly attended, the 3'ounger members much scattered, and 
many of the aged disheartened. The attendance now is 
quite good at all the services of the church; the Sunday 
evening meetings have been brought up to a good standard, 
and the Bible school meeting supplies a long-felt want. 
The church has indeed become a cheerful giver, and re- 
sponds to every worth}- call. The pastor is a ready speaker 
and an active w^orker. His sermons are prepared with much 
care and command marked attention. The church is en- 
joying a fair degree of prosperity. The members are gener- 
ally united and in peace; and there are many cheering signs 
of future gro^vth. The dark hours of the past have disci- 
plined man}?- for the w-ork still before us. God has committed 
to our hands a great work ; trusting in him may we never 
falter — 

'• ^or lay Thine armor down, 

Till Tliou hast won the crown." 

John H. Corbin. 

A brief sketch of the Union Baptist Sabbath School 
during the past t\venty-three years : 

It w-as on a Sabbath morning in September, 1850, that an 
aged brother of the Baker Street Church, Mr. Corbin, 



And Morning of Recovery. 163 

visited the Ninth Street Babtist Church to secure some 
assistance for the scliool. The low cionditiou and necessi- 
ties of the Baker Street School were laid before' Mr. G. F. 
Davis, then superintendent of the Ninth Street School. He 
looked over his teachers, and went to brother Joseph Emery, 
who was teaching a Bible class of 3'oung men, and said, 
"Now brother E., if you want to do some missionary work, 
go down to Baker Street Church, and help their Sunday 
school ; they need help ver^^ badl3', and 3^0 u may do them 
good." 

He consented to visit them, and did so on the following 
Sabbath. He found some thirt^^ children and three teachers 
in a dark, dingy room. The result of this visit was that 
Mr. Emerj' bade farewell to his Bible class, to which he was 
strongly attached. New life was infused into the school ; 
other teachers volunteered, and the school soon increased 
to one hundred, and went on prospering until two hundred 
scholars were gathered there for instruction. Rev. Henry 
Adams, about this time, became pastor of the church, and 
took special interest in the school. A montlil}' meeting in 
the afternoon, of parents, scholars, and teachers, was soon 
inaugurated, which was largety attended, and has been con- 
tinued ever since. 

After brother Emer}^ had been superintending the school 
two years, the teachers and friends conceived the idea of 
presenting him a handsome family Bible. This was done 
in October, 1852, at the second annual meeting. The 
occasion was one of jo5^ous interest, and will never be for- 
gotten by those present. From ^^ear to year various other 
testimonials were presented by both scholars and teachers, 
which showed their appreciation of his labors. 

The dark shadow of slavery, at this time and for j^ears 
afterward, hung over the Southern States. The fervent 



164 The Night of Affliction 

pra3'ers which went up to God from this church iiiid Sun- 
day school were in due time answered. No panting slave 
who sought shelter here was ever betra3'ed, but welcomed, 
fed, clothed, and assisted according to the divine word — 
" Deal thy bread to the hungry, and the poor that is cast 
out bring to thy house." These were the days which tried 
men's souls. 

One Sabbath morning, Rev. Edward Mathews, an English 
Baptist minister, who had been preaching in Kentuck}', 
came in, having escaped his persecutors. Nine times he 
had been thrown into a deep pond, in cold weather, because 
he declared " slavery was a sin against God, and a curse 
against man." He plead for his life, and was onl}- spared 
because he promised to " leave Kentucky never to return." 
His touching narrative melted both scholars and teachers 
to tears. Mau}^ thanksgivings arose to God that the life 
of this faithful witness had been spared; and fervent were 
the prayers offered for the overthrow of slavery and the 
emancipation of the oppressed. 

The superintendent, in those dark days, often assured 
the children of his conviction that they would live to see 
the end of this sum of all villianies ; and he hoped to live 
himself to see the last slave emancipated. 

In the summer of 1854, by excavations near the churcli 
building on Walnut street, the corner of the house fell 
down, and the Sunday school and church worshiped in 
the old Masonic Hall. These were trying times; but the 
band of faithful teachers toiled on, and in due time the 
house was rebuilt. 

During the war, in 1861, the church found it needful to 
sell the old building on Baker street, and purchased the 
house now occupied, corner of Mound and Richmond. 

Manv a grracious revival has visited this church and 



And jNIorning oi' Recovery. 165 

school. In 1857 scores were added to the church by bap- 
tism; among them many of the scholars. Ekler Simpson 
was then pastor. Then in 1862, when Rev. Wm. V. New- 
man became pastor, there was a steady accession of mem- 
bers for some time — over one hundred. His useful labors 
were terminated by death from cholera August 1st, 1865: 
a loss severely felt by the school, the church, and the 
communit3\ Discouraging and trjing times followed. 

Under the labors of its present pastor. Rev. J. H. Magee, 
ever^^thing has brightened up. He has taught a Bible 
class each Sabbath. Ma}" his life be long spared to win 
souls to Christ, and to buikl up the church in the faith of 
the gospel. Many scholars have been added to the church 
under his labors. 

During the past twenty 3'ears the school has celebrated 
its annual reunion in an excursion to the woods beyond the 
city. These have been occasions of much interest and 
enjoyment. The profits arising from this source have 
mainly supported the school from j^ear to 3'ear. A collec- 
tion is taken each Sabbath for missionary purposes. Dur- 
ing tlie past fifteen j^ears the school has appropriated fift}" 
dollars annually towards the support of Rev. Joseph Em- 
er}^ city missionar3\ Donations to the Bible, Baptist 
Publication, and other societies, have been made; and 
special collections have been taken to aid schools and 
churches in the south. An annual donation lias been 
made to the Colored Orphan As3lum. 

Although several scholars have died during the twenty- 
three years, onl}- two teachers and one officer have been 
removed b^^ death. 

The first was Julia Davis, teacher of a large Bible-class. 
She rested from her labors about the 3'ear 1854. Loved by 
her class and the school, she died in the Lord. 



166 The Night of Affliction 



William F. Corbin, who was librarian for some time, 
died liappy in the love of Christ in the nineteenth j^ear 
of his age. One of the favorite hymns during his last 
sickness was, 

" Just as I am ! without one plea, 

But that thy blood was shed for me, 
And that thou bidst me come to thee; 
O, Lamb of God, I come ! " 

This was often repeated by him with great fervor. He 
was visited by superintendent and teachers man}- times. 

Miss Caroline Breux, after teaching a Bible-class of girls 
for twenty-one yeai's, fell asleep in Jesus April 4th, 1872. 
Her chief desire to recover was that she might lead souls 
to Christ. In this work God had greatly' blessed her. 

Many of the former scholars of our school are now filling 
useful stations in society-, honoring God by a life devoted 
to his service. Some have become preachers of the gospel; 
amono- these we love to think of our brother Rev. Thomas 
Webb, who, after remaining with the school some twelve 
3'ears, commenced the Plum Street Mission, which God 
has greatl}^ blessed. The first superintendent of the Sab- 
bath school, brother Joseph Corbin, w\as one of our scholars; 
the present superintendent, his brother John H. Corbin, 
has been and now is our vice superintendent. May God 
bless the labors of these brethren yet more and more. 

Brother Joseph Corbin is superintendent of one of the 
best schools in Little Rock, Arkansas, and is State Super- 
intendent of Public Instruction. 

Another of our teachers, Samuel White, is superinten- 
dent of a Sabbath school in Alabama, and S. Sanderlin 
has a flourishing school in Mississippi. Herman Living- 
stone is doing a similar work in Mississippi. Some are in 
Louisiana and Texas. Rev. R. W- Scott, for many years 



And ^Mor.NiNG of Recovery. 167 



a teaclier, lias charge of a growing church in Florence, 
K( ntuek}'. 

One of our scholars, Lizzie Warwick, married and wont 
to Africa, where she died. Another married, nnd her 
husband, ^Ir. Turner, was appointed bv President Grant 
an ambassador to Liberia. Others are in Kansas and Ne- 
braska, and many others nearer home in Ohio, Indiana, 
and Kentuck3\ O, may God grant that all our scholars 
and teachers with their parents may meet in the Kingdom 
of God. 

THE LATE WAR. 

Every one of our members rejoiced in the election of 
Abraham Lincoln in 1860. Through the darkness which 
followed, and the terrible four 3'ears of war, we were en- 
abled to see the hand of God, and recognized with the first 
shot fired at Fort Sumpter, the certain indication of the 
downfiiU and entire abolition of American slavery. In this 
struggle and its results was fulfilled that ancient prediction : 
" By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, 
O God of our salvation.*" 

Many of our scholars were enlisted in the arni}^, and all 
felt a deep interest in the struggle. All the male teachers 
and the superintendent went to the rescue, when our city 
was tlireatened in 1862. Bus}^ hands were employed, and 
manv otferinos made to our suffering soldiers. 

Our brethren from the south were sent to our cit^^ b}^ 
the hundreds, and our school did its part in helping these 
poor, distressed people. Some of them remain among us, 
and are industrious, pious men and women. They were 
welcomed into the school and the church of Christ. 

In the assassination of our lamented President, Abraham 
Lincoln, oiir school sympathized with the nation in its 



168 The Night of Affliction 



heartfelt sorrow, ever keeping the countiy and its rulers in 
their hearts before God in pra>'er. 

Briiihter days have dawned under our much esteemed 
President Grant. May God bless him, and spare his life 
for many years. 

Our School has been visited by men of God from the 
east and west, north and south. Cleveland, Boston, New 
York, Washington, St. Louis, Chicago, and New Orleans 
have been represented by earnest Christian workers, whose 
words have cheered our hearts. 

Brethren of our city have alwa3^s shown a readiness to 
visit us. Brother H. T. Miller, and our brother W. H. 
Doane, author of " Silver Spray," have many times glad- 
dened our hearts by earnest words of Christian love. 

PRESENT OFFICERS OF THE SCHOOL. 
Superintendent — Joseph Emery. 
Vice-Supei'intendent — John H. Corbin. 
Secretary/ — Mary Forte. 
Treasurer — George Harrison. 

Librarians. 
Griffith Forte, Henry Baker. 

Teachers. 

Rev. J. H. Magee, Mrs. Isabella Graham, 

G. W. Forbes, Mrs. Adelia Curtis, 

Fountain Lewis, Mrs. J. H. Corbin. 

J. H. Corbin, Miss Ella Collins, 

Geo. Hays, Miss Mary Lewis, 

Geo. Harrison, Miss Ada Short, 

Mrs. Fannie Monroe, Miss Julia Short (deceased) 

Whatever of good the school has accomplished, its 
teachers and officers desire to say, "Not unto us, O Lord, 



And ]Mokning of Rkcovkky. 169 

not unto us, ])ut to tliv name sfivc ixloiv." " Of thine 
own have we given unto thee." Whilst praising God for 
the manv blessings bestowed upon us, we mourn our short- 
comings, and earnestly pray that our lives m;iy be more 
entirelv consecrated to Christ, that all the children com- 
mitted to our care may become the cliiidren of God by 
faith in Jesus Christ, that their lives may be devoted to 
His service. And when it slia 1 please God to remove us, 
that we may depart and be with Christ, which is far better, 

Ciiicinnnti, Ma3' 1st, 1873. 

Allen Temple, formerly known as Allen Chapel, is a 
beautiful structure known as the Jewish Synagogue, situ- 
ated on corner of Broadwav and Sixth. It is a noteworthy 
fact that this is the lirst instance of a Jewish place 
of worship having i)assed into the hands of colored peo[)le. 
Tlie suiTouudiniifs of their old church were aiiv thing else 
till 1 lurceable In i)rocess of time their i)resent beautiful 
lioiisf, morj beautiful in architecture, and afeo more l>eau- 
tiful for its situation, was offered by the Jews for sale. 
Many applic itions were made for it, but the former owners 
preferred tiiat the house should pass into th^ hands of a 
denomination who would use its sAcred indosure for the 
worship of the true God. Through the untiring energy 
of their fiithful paster. Rev. R. A. Johnson, and the sag i- 
city of his church officers, the i)ureha8e was made at a 
cost of .$25 000, and dedicated to the worship of almighty 
Go I on the 4th of December, 1870, by the A M. E. Church. 
The sermon was })reached by Rev. Bishop D. A- Payne, D. 
1). Now they have one of the finest, if not the finest, 
church edifice in the western country. It will seat about 
one thousand people. 

Now a few words about the present pastor Rev. R. A. 
15 



170 The jVi(;iit of Affliction 

Johnson, ^vlio has been preaching tlic gospel for twenty 
3'ears. He is one of the most vigorous, polished, and ready 
speakers in the A. M. E. Church. Under God his labors 
have been, and are 3'et abundantly blessed. As a linancier 
he has no superior. Through this abilit}' in this matter 
the A. M. E. Church and denomination owe a lastinii' debt 
of gratitude for what he has accomplished. Our i)ersonal 
and social relations during his stay in Cincinnati were 
most })leasant and agreeable, he and I frequently exchang- 
ing })ulpits to the mutal satisfaction of our respective 
charges. It is with deep regret that our pleasant relations 
as co-workers in the cause of our Lord and Saviour is soon 
to be severed by Itis call and settlement with another charge. 
Though we ma}- be each laboring in separate and it may 
be distant fields of usefulness, yet the memories of hapi)y 
by-gone days siiall cluster around our pathways in this 
.^life like Jonathan and David, who lived and died as one 

** Blest be tlie tie that binds 
,/ Our hearts in CliristJMn love; 
The fellowslili) of kindred minds 
Is like to that above. 

. " VVlicn we asund«'r part 
It gives us inward pain, 
But we shall slill bi; joined in heart. 
And hope to meet ao:ain," 

Walnut Hills Baptist Church was organized under their 
present successful i)astor. Elder D. W. Early. The church 
has had a, steady growth since its organization, and, judg- 
ing from its past history, it is destined to be one of the 
strongest churches in southern Ohio. 

First Baptist Churcli of P'lorence, Kentucky, was organ- 
ized on the 10th of Auuusl, 1870, under a large beech tree 



Aau MoKxixa OF Hi:.ovEiiv. 171 



about Olio mile above FloreiKc KUler R. W. ScoU was 
called to preach for the {)eople, and so ing such Lumbers, 
like one of old, he inquired, " Wli) is on tiie Lord's side." 
Out of the mubitude he found four [)ers<)ns who daied to 
say that they were on the Lord's side. With them Elder 
Scott made a covenant to become an oro-anized bodv. At 
that time they had no house in which to worsiip God, but 
since that time, bj^ the help of the Lord, they have i)ur- 
chased a large lot, and built a comfortable house capable 
of accommodating three hundred persons. They have a 
flourishing Sunday school, and a congregatit)n of over two 
hundred i)eo[)le. "The wilderness and the solitary place 
shall be glad for them; and the desert shall blossom as a 
rose." Isaiah xxxv. 1. 

Union M. E. Church (pastor, Elder Swere) is doing very 
"Well under theii" present pastor. They have enjoyed a 
precious revival of religion since brother Swei'e took the 
pastoral oversight of them. Their [)resent beautiful house 
of worship, on Seventh street, is very comfortable. Signs 
of progress are very evident in their growing congregation. 

Harrison Street Cliri>tian Churcli, under the pastoral 
charge of Rev. Rufus Conrad, is doing a good work for 
God. Pastor Elder Conr'ul is a studious and profound 
thinker — a man calculated to do much good. His services 
are in grerit demand both in Cincinnati and elsewhere. 

Zion liaptist Church was orgnnized man}' years ago, and 
through their ex-i)astor Elder Wallace Shelton, they gaine<l 
a wonderfid d --n'O of prominence. They succeeded in 
building their pre-eiit large and })eautiful house of Avor- 
ship on Nintli Street, where they have an excellent prop- 



172 The Night of Affliction 



ertv, and it is to be hoped that they mn v soon be relieved 
from a Iieavy debt whieh now embarrasses them. Their 
house is one of the finest struetures among the colored 
Baptists in tlie west. 

Elder Shelton's hibors as a i)lanter of churches have 
been abundant. As he is about to write a historv of his 
life and work in the State of Ohio, I lierc only give a 
brief notice of his connection, as pastor, with the Ziou 
Baptist Church, which relation has been severed by his 
resignation. For further particulars I take great pleasure 
in referrino^ the reader to Elder Shelton's forth cominor 
book. 



A TRIP TO LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY. 

On Saturday, Ai)iil 2Gt!j, 187.3, I went to Louisville, via 
the Short Line Railroad, arriving about 1 o'clock in the 
alternoon of the (]ay of my departure. 1 stopped at the 
residence of Mr. Austin Hubl)ard, on Ninth street, by 
whom I was introduced to Ehler Andrew Heth, jmstor (»f 
Fifth Street Baptist Church (late Polder Adam.^' chuich). 
I found pjlder lletli a very geninl, Cinist-loving, christian 
brother, and received from him and his church people a 
very hearty welcome. I visited their Sunday school, which 
I found t" be well organized and under an efficient number 
of teacheis. Their superintendent is a ver^' excellent 
young nuui, who i.s doing a good work for that school and 
for the church of Christ. There were tliree hundred and 
thirteen scholars present on the morning of the l7th of 
A[)ril. The superintendent asked me to address the school 
at the close of class exercises, which I did, tiiking foi' my 
subject the importnnce of early religious training, illus- 
trated b^' the spring season of the year. 



AxD Morning of Rkcovery. 173 

III tlie evening-, at 8 o'clock, I i)rcac!ierl to a crowded 
cenurciiaLioii of attentive hearers. This is one of the 
largest chmvhes (nninerlcally) in the sonth-western coiin- 
trv. This church, without an}' exception, has one of the 
l)est choirs in the United States. Mr. ^[innis is the leader 
of tliis very excellent choir. 

At 3 (Vclock, p. M., I preached in the York Street Bap- 
tist Church, corner of Fifth and York streets. Elder W. 
W. Taylor is the pastor of this thriving new church. He 
has labored abundantly with his willing flock in getting 
means with which to build the present new and commo- 
dious house of worship. The. building is made of brick, 
and when complett'd it will be one of the most beautiful 
liouses of worship among the colored Baptists in thatcitj'. 
There are eight colored Baptist ciiurches in Louisville — 
the Fifth, York, and Green Street churches being the prin- 
ci})al ones. Elder Gadd}' is the pastor of the last named. 

My visit to Louisville was attended with feelings of emo- 
tion in consequence of its association with the earl}' his- 
tory' of my father and mother. It was in that city that 
my mother was born, and my father was boi'ii ver}- near 
tlie city, near Bear Grass Creek. Li that city ni}' father 
labored during the dark days of slavery to earn mone}' to 
purchase m}' mother and two children. The memor}- of 
bj'-gone daj's came with powerful force over my mind, 
from what I had heard my parents speak of the place and 
people. There are many signs, as well as the elements, in 
that city, to make our people a great blessing to themselves 
and the world. Progress is the watch word and order of 
the day among then^. 



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